Theta Prometheus Monoblock vs Bryston 7BSST2


I was all set to buy the Bryston 7B-SST2 amps to mate to a KEF Blade (or Blade2). However, the recent review of the Theta Prometheus on Stereophile has me intrigued. I like the benefits mentioned for the class D amps over AB or A. Less power consumption, run cool, small footprint.

I heard these amps at THE NEWPORT SHOW this year and they sounded very good but I cannot really tell in a show (unless it is really bad sound). I know how the Bryston sounds and like the fact that I would have a great RELIABLE amp if I went with Bryston. My pre-amp in the SS BAT VK-42SE. I will have a 2 channel computer based system, with the PS Audio DS DAC.

Anybody using these new Theta amps care to provide feedback on your experience. I would prefer to hide any new amps in a closed audio rack because of potential damage (spills etc..)
yyzsantabarbara
Hi Statman, which dealer did you work with during your successful Prometheous quest?

Saluti, GUido
Statman, if money was no object, would you prefer the Thetas vs. the D'agostino Momentum? I have read the latter has a veil over the sound compared to the more transparent amps...

Yyzsantabarbara hi.

The Kef Blade II are hard but not too hard a load to drive at 87db and 3ohm min right across the low to mid bass. And there are no nasty - phase angles to worry about.

So a very good 4ohm capable amp would do, I myself would be looking at Pass Labs XA class of amps.

I do not think class D has come of age yet, as the switching frequency technology is not yet high enough.

Another amp worth looking at is the Parasound Halo JC1 mono-blocks in their higher Class A mode that's switchable on the back, I listened to these on a pair of Wilson Alexia's, a real evil load (.8ohm epdr), and they sounded great with this amp.

Cheers George
"I do not think class D has come of age yet, as the switching frequency technology is not yet high enough"

George, which amps have you experienced which are the audible cause of your pessimism?

G.