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How do I power my 800D(3)s

Hi folks

I am new to this, but trying to learn fast!

I have long been a fan of Bowers and Wilkins and I am lucky enough to buy a brand new pair of 800D(3)'s.  I have recently built a new house, so now have enough space for this very special purchase, which I plan to make in the next month or so.

I want to run a two channel system in our living room so it's a pretty simple layout.  Can anybody give me some advice, so that I get the best out of the speakers.  Will a Pre-Amp, and an Amp be enough with a Streamer?  Do I need two amps?  

Can you also advise on the best brands to look at.  I see that B&W tends to show the speakers off in thier demo's with Classe?  Any thoughts?

Thanks in advance.

Matt
128x128matt_gf
gpgr4blu
1,094 posts
 
Love the McIntosh tubes with B & W. Very synergistic. A pair of 2301s sound fabulous. If not, then Mac solid state.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,478 posts
 
I would hope that you listened to other speakers in this price range...Vandersteen, Maggies, etc.
shadorne's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
shadorne
7,477 posts
 
+1 Bryston. The 4B SST2 should handle it with aplomb.

matt_gf's avatar
matt_gf OP
5 posts
 
Folks

Wow, thanks for getting back to me so quickly.  I agree I need to go into the dealer to test several of the amps you have suggested.  I wanted some input before I ventured back into the dealer, so that I have a broad perspective.  I was afraid that the dealer would steer me in the direction of most 'margin' for them.

It is really challenging finding good content/advice from the audio mags and sites, so this has been a really valuable exercise.  Thanks to all of you.

I will spend some time in the dealer/s later this week and then come back with further questions (I am sure).

What about Linn?  Has anybody had any experience with these amps and pre-amps?  

Matt
kalali's avatar
kalali
1,977 posts
 
I think most people think B&W speakers tend to be a tad bright as compared to very neutral speakers. So the choice of preamp/amp/cable, etc., and room treatment needs to take that into account. Lots of great choices in that (or even lower) price range.
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