Would Benchmark Amp AHB2 Pair Well with Salk Speaker (Beats, BePure, or Encore)?


I am putting together a system on paper right now but would buy in stages, perhaps starting with the AHB2. Do you think the AHB2 would pair well with Salk floorstanding speakers? I was looking at the Encore (87 dB, 8 ohm), BePure 2 (90 dB, 4 ohm), or the Beats (88 dB, 8 ohm)? My goal, at least at this stage is minimal coloration in the music and accurate/present details and nothing bright. I could always adjust things in the future with a EQ or tube pre. Big room, but I don’t listen very loud. Thanks.

12many

I’ve used the AHB2 with my Revel Ultima Studios with music and movies at what I consider loud listening volumes and I’ve never had protection circuitry kick in. I use the HPA4 as the pre.

 

The AHB2 and HPA4 are as neutral as they come. If you hear brightness, it’s going to be in the source or the speakers.

I have had the Benchmark stack for two years now and It is incredible equipment. I can understand comments to the effect that it’s too sterile or bright-it’s not, but the sound does take some getting used to, especially if you are used to hearing distortion, intentionally or otherwise. I have yet to hear any other equipment that is as transparent and allows one to hear all of the music. Once you get used to the sound it is hard to listen to anything else (with the right speakers). Having said that, I have other systems that have completely different sound signatures, including a Belles Aria in a nearfield analogue set up, which I enjoy immensely. Again though, nothing matches the all Benchmark system in its uncanny ability to allow the listener to hear more of the music.