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Benchmark AHB2 amplifier - what to expect?

My current amplifier, driven by Benchmark DAC3 HGC, is Rowland model 102.  It is basically couple of Icepower 200ASC modules packed into resonance free heavy case, with additional input differential amp THAT1200.  These modules were used in many small class D amps, including Bel Canto S300 and M300.  I feel that Benchmark AHB2 might be a good choice for few reasons:

- It matches my Benchmark DAC3 (electrically and physically) 
- It has neutral sound, that I like, with very low noise floor (according to reviews)
- It could possibly extend trebles a little more  (trebles are slightly veiled now).

My speakers are Hyperion Sound HPS-938, (a giant killer), but not too many people are familiar with them since company went bankrupt few years ago.  They tend to sound warm (soft dome tweeter), with wonderful midrange.

I'm looking for anyone familiar with AHB2 and class D amps.  I found favorable review of AHB2 vs NAD M22, but it might not apply to my situation since M22 is based on different modules (Hypex).  My birthday is coming in a month and I could buy myself a present.  I will be grateful for any comments.


128x128kijanki
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,179 posts
 
Kijanki my recollection is the treble was very good and I did not notice any issues with high frequency "air".

I suspect the Benchmark or alternately many good quality newer generation quality Class D amps in the last few years like those from Bel Canto can be a step up from Icepower of prior generations, in particular when it comes to high frequency "air". I have a Bel Canto C5i digital integrated in my second system that supports that theory.
randy-11
1,913 posts
 
"Honey - I just saved us some money on our elec. bill !!  Here is some jewelry!"

When she asks about the new box reference the elec. savings again.
willemj
1,036 posts
 
The AHB2 is not class D, even if energy consumption is low.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,179 posts
 
Correct.  Did not mean to give that impression.
kijanki's avatar
kijanki OP
4,428 posts
 
Mapman, that is what I suspected - newer class D amps use either Hypex or Pascal modules.

Randy, I suggested, that it is the very last moment we can buy something like that, since we're retiring in May.  I also stressed out benefit of additional amplifier to make second system (Paradigm Studio/60 v2, Benchmark DAC1, Rowland 102).  SHE SAID YES!!! and I placed the order a moment ago.  With 30 day free trial (when ordered directly from Benchmark) I don't risk anything.

Willemj, It is combination of class AB and class H, where supply voltage is modulated according to amplitude of the input signal in order to reduce wasted power.  I wouldn't mind good class D, but Benchmark AHB2 got Stereophile 2017 recommended component class A and has great reviews everywhere else (I'm already tired from reading reviews).

Thank you all.  I will post small review.
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