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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
aberyclark
1,355 posts
 
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.



Be sure to give us your impressions. I'm looking to purchase one as well. As a temporary stop gap last August, I purchased the Nuforce (class a/b) sta200 for $499 (origially $1400). I was blown away (maybe my old B&K amp was too far gone and anything was a major improvement). I still plan on a new amp early this year. 

I have a 101 db efficient speakers and the quieter, the better. I narrowed down to go tubes (QS Horn Monos) or the benchmark. 
kijanki's avatar
kijanki OP
4,410 posts
 
Aberyclark, I sure will, but it will only be my impression, coming from entry level class D.  There are more experienced people to write reviews.  Also, remember that I'm not looking for "warm" sound.
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,888 posts
 
Class D is not for those seeking a "warm" sound for sure, though my Dynaudio monitors tend to skew that way somewhat. In the limited time I had to listen, the Benchmark amp struck me similarly, ie not for those seeking a warm sounding amp.
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kijanki's avatar
kijanki OP
4,410 posts
 
I don't like too warm, because that, to me implies a shelved down presence region and recessed high end.
Not only that.  According to technical director of Benchmark Media John Siau, overly warm sound can make instruments with complex overtones, like piano, to sound like out of tune.
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