Benchmark AHB2 Amplifier, opinions and competition

One amp for each speaker, one channel running the low frequencies, the other channel running the tops. To my ears, this is always more open, dynamic and detailed.

That's because in vertical bi-amping all the energy stored in the power supply of the one amp is devoted to just one bass driver, and the other amp the other bass driver.
Horizontal is compromised, as the power supply in one amp has to service both channels bass drivers.
And bridging the amp is just wrong, unless you want/need very high wattage, but be prepared to "take a hit" on all the other parameters that make an amp a good one.

Cheers George

There was a review I read on the AHB2 that compared it to the Chord TToby. I have NEVER even heard of this Chord amp and yet according to this reviewer I think I would prefer it as its Warmer/Sweeter etc.  I cant even find a review of this Chord amp or literally anything on the Web.  I am intrigued. Its a little more expensive...like 1K more. Might be something to consider if you can audition one.

The review mentioned above.
https://audiobacon.net/2019/03/29/benchmark-ahb2-stereo-power-amplifier-review/

Rather interesting that Benchmark is out of stock.
https://benchmarkmedia.com/collections/amp/products/benchmark-ahb2-power-amplifier

I found it interesting the amp is out of stock thru Benchmark direct. Back ordered at B&H. Maybe some issue with part shortages or manufacturing plant. One would think that if a new version was close, one would hear something at recent audio shows

It’s ironic that I bought the Benchmark not having yet read the reviews but out of expediency, simply needing to quickly replace my broken amp out for repairs.
You can imagine how thrilled I am after hearing it and reading the glowing reviews cited above.  Also it appears I got lucky in obtaining one before the shortage.