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Bi-amping Rules

I wasn't sure if this question belongs in the amp or the speaker section but I figured I'll post it here. Those of you who have bi-amped your speakers, what's the general rule for deciding which amplifiers are better for low frequency vs. the high frequency drivers. I recognize an accurate answer will depend on the particular speakers and amp combinations but I'm looking for general rules of thumb from personal experiences and not application specific recommendations. For the sake of the argument, let's assume the amps are different but the gains on both amps can be adjusted if that matters. Thanks.
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lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,550 posts
 
jrhud, what preamp you're using? And are you using an external crossover? 

I am looking bi-amping my 800D2's.  

russbutton's avatar
russbutton
433 posts
 
When you bi-amp, you become a speaker designer, like it or not.  There was a time when it was a bit of a pig in a poke, but the possibilities were always there.  The miniDSP 2x4 active crossover only costs about $110 and it allows you to do DSP EQ on your system.  No matter the amps or the room you're using, you can measure what's coming out and create a correction filter to apply to the miniDSP.  

This means you can try whatever amps you like and just see how it goes.  When an amp only has a single driver as its load, it can do a whole lot better than you realize.  This also gives you the chance to mix tubes and solid state if you like.  Many have done that with great results.  Tweeters and mid-range drivers require little power.  Most of the power being used in the big systems is lost in the crossovers as well as being used to drive the low end.  And a solid state low end is just so much stronger than most tube amps as well.

Or you can be like most who just prefer to spend many, many thousands of dollars because someone told them they should trust the designers because they charge so much they must be good.  Why should you trust your own ears?
falconquest's avatar
falconquest
1,108 posts
 
So given three way speakers, why stop at bi-amping when you can tri-amp? I am of course being facetious. Please let us know how this turns out.
georgelp's avatar
georgelp
4 posts
 

I can’t tell y’all how many times in the last 40 years of my career in A/V people have always missed the first fundamental. They pile up a stack of humming electronics and wonder why their performance is underwhelming. Think about power first. Add up the greedy electrical cravings of all the equipment - then spot it all an additional 25%. You need the available power to do what you want and give the amps a chance to breath. Keep in mind a 15amp a/c circuit has 1800 watts available and a 20amp has only 2,400 (both with 120volt US standard). And be sure to add up every bit on that circuit - be sure to include lamps, clocks, and chair warmers!

Two 1,000 watt per channel amps, preamp, tuner, DVD, computer, cable box, D/A, equalizers, monitors, and that neon lit beer sign with the dogs playing poker are going to suck dry a 15amp circuit. Your result will be a rather anemic.

audiofreak1954
13 posts
 
For me..... low end must have high damping factor, tubes on highs SS on bottom and yes tramping is even beter. I've even heard quad and more amping. Basically I feel it about control.
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