2. amps-preamps
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8-10k budget suggestions please

Hey guys, 

been out of the game about 10 years, got a new wife, new house, and plugged in my old B&W 804's.  Connected them to a Denon receiver expecting to want to do surround sound.......But forget it!  I really want to maximize my 804's for 2 channel listening.

My room is 15ft long by 13 by 9.  not very big but I need amplification and streaming capabilites.  Will add TT later as I do have vinyl.  Room tx is on it's way so let's just assume it's already done.

 

Thanks for all your help!

128x128asmithkash
jeffreyw's avatar
jeffreyw
268 posts
 

McIntosh MA9500. Will sing with B&W! It has a crazy good DAC and Phono section. You would only need a streamer for the DAC and you're done! Also has HDMI (ARC) for connection to your TV. 

laaudionut
263 posts
 

Come on...the syrupy and homogenized sound of McIntosh is the only thing that COULD sound good with the fatiguing and overly bright house sound of B&W. You are attempting to start fresh, so raise your listening expectations.

mapman's avatar
mapman
22,182 posts
 

Try a Cambridge Evo 150,  save lots of money getting great sound, and call it a day.  I did. 

curiousjim's avatar
curiousjim
4,678 posts
 

Aren’t the 804’s known for their Bright tweeters?  I’m thinking a used Hegel H590 should work for you and it has a decent DAC built in.

knotscott
919 posts
 

I think your 804s could sound really good on a decent tube amp. I’d consider looking into Prima Luna, Rogue, Willsenton, Nighthawk, or even VTA by Tubes4hifi.com

I’d also consider upgrading some crossover components in your 804s....better caps, better inductors, better resistors where needed, and better wire.

Add that TT with a decent cart, and welcome back!

 

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