2. amps-preamps
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How do I power my 800D(3)s

Hi folks

I am new to this, but trying to learn fast!

I have long been a fan of Bowers and Wilkins and I am lucky enough to buy a brand new pair of 800D(3)'s.  I have recently built a new house, so now have enough space for this very special purchase, which I plan to make in the next month or so.

I want to run a two channel system in our living room so it's a pretty simple layout.  Can anybody give me some advice, so that I get the best out of the speakers.  Will a Pre-Amp, and an Amp be enough with a Streamer?  Do I need two amps?  

Can you also advise on the best brands to look at.  I see that B&W tends to show the speakers off in thier demo's with Classe?  Any thoughts?

Thanks in advance.

Matt
128x128matt_gf
dlcockrum's avatar
dlcockrum
2,190 posts
 
"Here is your problem: your speakers are far too good to listen with any streaming service."

Tidal (especially the Masters) streamed through a great USB-capable DAC sounds very, very good. I encourage you to compare Tidal's sound quality to your favorite CD transport through the same DAC. You will be pleasantly surprised (as I was).

Dave


georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
For reference I really like the Lynn product, but it is VERY expensive

Matt
Great amp but knowing and having worked on them, NO, not for these loads that these speakers represent. Between 60hz and 1000hz especially at 70-90hz.

http://www.stereophile.com/images/616BW802fig1.jpg

Cheers George
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,814 posts
 
matt_gf

give us an update?
matt_gf's avatar
matt_gf OP
5 posts
 
Hey, sorry again for the radio silence.

As discussed I have been taking my time and listening to several options in the last few months. I am narrowing it down to:

Naim
Classe (Although I am waiting for the potential new kit)
Meridian
Linn

So Far my preference for listening quality is the Naim set up, although the output per channel (on the kit within my budget) is quite low 95w. The clarity (for my ears) was definitely the best of the bunch

I still have about a month before I need to make the purchase so I am still very much in discovery mode. I am hoping to get a couple of demo systems to live with at home before I make the final decision.

Will keep posting the journey

Matt
gregkohanmim
153 posts
 
Matt - As far as Classe is concerned are you looking at the CA-M600s?

Those would be a perfect match for the speakers and if you really want to do it right, a pair for each channel bi-amped would be ideal.

Greg
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