2. amps-preamps
  3. 1066985300

Krell FPB 300cx enough to drive B&W Nautilus 801?

I'm about to purchase the Nautilus 801s, along with the Krell FPB 300cx amp. Would there be any significant improvement if I were to get the Krell 400cx instead? I emphasize the word significant, because price is a major issue. I know the 801s need power, so any opinions as to the sufficiency of the 300cx would be much appreciated. Thanks.
liszt458
drrdiamond
671 posts
 
Liszt,
No, I needed two FPB300's since I used an electronic x-over.

Richard
liszt458 OP
15 posts
 
Stevecham, very compelling! The fact that you directly compared both amps in the same system (something I am not able to do) says a lot. It looks like I will be spending the extra money after all. Thanks for the input.
jtinn
1,124 posts
 
Liszt458: What may have been necessary for Stevecham with his Thiel CS6's, will not be the same for your B&W Nautilus 801's.

His speakers are very inefficient at 86db and yours are much easier to drive at 91db.

Save the money and buy music.
drrdiamond
671 posts
 
Jtin,
I think what Steve and I are primarily talking about is quality of the power, not the quantity.

Richard
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
I agree with Drrdiamond on this. It was not my goal to simply have more power, and besides, the wattage output gain between the 400cx and 300cx is really insignificant when it comes to sound pressure levels. My goal was to see if there was truly a qualitative difference at the same SPLs I normally listen to (usually b/w 70 to 80 dB with digital meter at 10 ft). The 400cx made a qualitative difference. I wish I could provide feedback about this for speakers that are easier to drive, such as B&Ws, Meadowlarks, Dunlavys and Vandersteens.

Liszt458: please send us your impressions when you're settled in with the 400cx.
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