Yeah autospec, it's the original version of the 25/25, not the Meg whatever version. I used it for years with a pair of old Quads, as did many others. That pairing is legendary.
Review: Bedini Electronics BA-801 Amplifier
Category: Amplifiers
I have been in search of a Bedini 801 amplifier for quite some time. I finally found a beauty from a fellow Audiogon member. I am a jazz drummer and listen to mostly newer jazz artists and classical recordings. This amplifier just makes the Audio Physics sing with authority. The soundstage and imaging extends far beyond the speakers and just has that "i'm there" sense. I replaced a tube power amp with the Bedini and almost fell of my chair. The bass firmed up and the highs were not edgy at all. I could not be happier with this amp. It will be in my system for a long time. The only faults I can find with this amplifier are the use of a non removable power cord, and plastic binding posts. The best part of this amplifier is that although discontinued since about 1990, Bedini still has product support and repair service.
I had been told that Class a amps get very hot. I do not find this to be the case. It does get rather warm to the touch, but never too hot to touch.
Overall, I think this amplifier is the proverbial diamond in the rough.
Associated gear
Audio Physic new Sparks V4
CAL CL-15 CD player
Forte Model 2 Preamplifier
Synergistic research Alpha X2 Cables
Project xpression2 turntable
Similar products
Rotel RB980bx, B&K EX442 Sonata,
Rogue Audio 88 Magnum, Sonic Frontiers power 2, Anthem amp 1
I have been in search of a Bedini 801 amplifier for quite some time. I finally found a beauty from a fellow Audiogon member. I am a jazz drummer and listen to mostly newer jazz artists and classical recordings. This amplifier just makes the Audio Physics sing with authority. The soundstage and imaging extends far beyond the speakers and just has that "i'm there" sense. I replaced a tube power amp with the Bedini and almost fell of my chair. The bass firmed up and the highs were not edgy at all. I could not be happier with this amp. It will be in my system for a long time. The only faults I can find with this amplifier are the use of a non removable power cord, and plastic binding posts. The best part of this amplifier is that although discontinued since about 1990, Bedini still has product support and repair service.
I had been told that Class a amps get very hot. I do not find this to be the case. It does get rather warm to the touch, but never too hot to touch.
Overall, I think this amplifier is the proverbial diamond in the rough.
Associated gear
Audio Physic new Sparks V4
CAL CL-15 CD player
Forte Model 2 Preamplifier
Synergistic research Alpha X2 Cables
Project xpression2 turntable
Similar products
Rotel RB980bx, B&K EX442 Sonata,
Rogue Audio 88 Magnum, Sonic Frontiers power 2, Anthem amp 1
19 responses Add your response
bdp24...I talk about this Bedini tube amp Bedini Vintage Series: Classic 10 watt mono tube (kt88) http://i63.tinypic.com/a28bk7.gif http://www.bedini.com/amplifiers.htm |
Mariano, Bedini makes solid state amps only, so you'll have to look elsewhere for a "KT88 vintage" (KT88 is a tube). I don't know what you mean by "vintage", but there are plenty of nice new amps that will run KT88's, including the Music Reference RM-200 Mk.2. (currently included in Stereophile's Recommended Components list, if that matters to you ;-). There is one offered on Audiogon right now for $2400, a great deal. |
I just bought the one 801 listed tonight. Whats nice is that the owner recently sent the amp back to John Bedini for service and was told the amp is good to go for another 40 years! That sounds good to me! Cant wait to hear this nice amp drive my Quad 63 USA's. If it sounds as good as my current Threshold S/200..Ill be very happy indeed! Rgds, Ken |
Hi Skipper320, I just saw a ad for a 801 eleswhere and checked Agon for some reviews. Your looks like the only one thus far. I too am a jazz lover(old school mostly)and am currently using Tim Rawsons gainclone amp (bpa300). I have had several of his amps in the past and like his approach. Bedini been around for a long time and thus the interest in the 801 being sold. Thanks for the review and have a Merry Christmas and great New Year. Regards, Bret |