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BBE Sonic Maximizer

Hello members.

I'm new here, and this is my first post.

I'm intimidated to even ask this question, due to the anticipated response.

Basically I have a mid/low-end system.

I'm running a pair of KT-88 /12ax7 mono-blocks, with either Ohm Walsh speakers, or vintage epicure speakers.

Recently a friend of mine brought over a BBE Sonic maximiser, and asked me to try it out. I think it sounded great. I just bought one for myself. I'm really enjoying this little processor.

Has anyone else here tried one of these out? If so, was it a positive or negative experience for you?

I recently read a review, that it’s like taking the blanket off your speakers, I agree with this statement.

At first I was wondering if it just brightened things up, but I don’t think that’s the case. My soundstage seemed to be un-touched.

Is my perceived success with this item due to the fact that I'm under-powering my ohms with my low powered mono's, or am I on to something?
klama2006
gregm
3,415 posts
 
ASAIK, the BBE is an equaliser with delay function. SO, in yr present set-up, the BBE is probably improving the in room response, at the expense of some distortion. Obviously, the pros outweigh the cons!
Is my perceived success with this item due to the fact that I'm under-powering my ohms with my low powered mono's,
Other than that yr amps have at least ONE kt88 (~35-40W)/ channel, I know nothing about them -- so I can't say!

I like your speakers!
getheleadout
144 posts
 
Greetings Klama2006, good for you. Hearing is believing! I've been in the hobby for 20 plus years and have been using a BBE sonic maximizer for the entire time.

I currently run the BBE482, which is a dual mono design, with great specs and the latest (phase four) circuitry

Given this black box cost a wopping $200.00, which wouldn't even cover the tax on a couple of my interconnection cables, makes it one of the best pieces of audio equipment ever, PERIOD!!!

My system has evolved quite a bit over the years and I find that the BBE continues to profoundly improves the sound quality. I'm so accustom to the sonic improvement that the BBE circuit makes, I couldn't imagine listening without one.

It's a shame that most audiophiles are signal processor phobes. Most will never know just how good their systems could sound.

Don't get discouraged by all the negative respones you'll probably receive to this thread. Trust your ears.

If you can find one, you might want to try a 3DBX, digital series, dynamic range expander. Properly used, it can make a real improvement.

By the way, the next time you're in a recording studio or at live event, take a look around at the equipment their using, you'll likely see tons of signal processors from the likes of BBE, DBX and others.

Welcome to the club...
rar1's avatar
rar1
1,828 posts
 
I used the BBE Sonic Maximizer quite a bit in the late 80's when CD's first came out. I had quite a few concert recordings that were just of so so quality (bootlegs) and the BBE really improved the sound. I was using both EPI 100's and Boston Acoustic Towers at the time with a Pioneer 636 receiver; Teac CD player; and Dual turntable.

I tried one a few years back with some of my present equipment and I disliked the difference it made. My listening tastes have also changed (more opera and classical now and less rock).

Regards, Rich
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