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which is better? Stereo Amp or Monoblocks?

Which do you like better ?  Stereo Amp or Monoblock amps ? Thanks for your Input!
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erik_squires
16,119 posts
 
Depends. I like mono because of better channel separation, but cost savings in stereo is often worth it.

I used to run a pair of Parasound amps, one for L and L surround, the other R and R surround. Worked great.

What I really want is a HT integrated though. Getting rid of all the cables and reclaiming shelf space is a big deal for me lately. :) 

E
auxinput
2,920 posts
 

Yup, agree with Erik.  Monoblocks have completely separate power supplies, whereas most stereo amplifiers used a single shared power supply.  However, some stereo amps are described as "dual-mono", which are actually two amplifier channels with two completely separate power supplies and transformers (just mounted in the same case).  Some stereo amps have a pseudo dual-mono design where you still have a shared transformer, but the left/right power supplies use different secondary windings from that transformer.

Also, monoblocks are usually, but not always, a fully balanced/differential design (i.e. push/pull).  Some stereo amplifiers are balanced/differential, but 90% of the stuff out there is still single-ended.

stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,468 posts
 
The better quality amp is the better sounding one.
erik_squires
16,119 posts
 
I should also point out, despite the amps I used having relatively poor channel separation, using them in mono or stereo didn't make a really big noticeable difference.

Eventually I used one for pure surround, so I could turn it on/off by trigger and save the electrical costs.

Best,

E
dlcockrum's avatar
dlcockrum
2,190 posts
 
stringreen nailed it.

Dave
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