2. amps-preamps
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Benchmark AHB2 in Mono Block Configuration

Hi:

I've owned the Benchmark ABH2 Amp for a few years but am now considering one two alternative upgrade paths:

A New Amp or adding a second AHB2. If I purchase a new amp so far I like the Bryston 3BCubed which is a dual mono design with 200 watts into 8 ohms or possibly the 4BCubed at 300 watts. In either case this is more power than the single ABH2 at 100 watts into 8 ohms. However adding a second ABH2 increases the power per channel to 380 watts .

So much for raw power. What about overall sound quality? The Bryston 3BCubed got an excellent review on Absolute Sound as an amp that would require significantly more $$ to better. Another review I read easily preferred the Bryston 43Cubed (300 watts per channel) over the ABH2.

I'm in the process of completely upgrading my system after several years of the same components. I will shortly have:

An Aurender N20 Streamer into an MSB Discrete DAC with dual power supplies feeding the single ABH2 which drives my Harbeth C7es-XD speakers.

Everything will be new except the older ABH2. Hence the consideration of an amp upgrade.

Now Benchmark will tell you that adding a second ABH2 is only needed when the single amp clips. Other than that there is no sonic benefit to adding a second. I Ffnd that hard to believe. I would think having a second would offer improved soundstage, separation and possibly better performance from the speakers. So my question is:

Have any of you added a second ABH2 and if so what were the overall sonic benefits if any? Also any opinion or experience on the Brystons vs the Benchmark? Or any suggestions of a better upgrade path would be welcomed.

jfrmusic
12many
228 posts
 

You can easily try the AHB2 with the option to return. Is there anyway to demo the Bryston with an option to return it? Even if this cost a few hundred for the trial, it would be worth it. Ideally, you would have both for a week or so and then decide for yourself. I don’t think you will know how they sound to your ear, in your system, and your room unless your try them both. I have an AHB2 and have read many reviews and you might like either one better. The 4B3 is about $7500 and two AHB2 are $7000 so the reality is they are about the same retail price. At the end of the day, both are detailed SS amps with a great reputation so either way it will sound great. Please keep us posted because I may be making a similar decision some day.  

Given what you spent on the front end, are you going to change your speakers as well?

jfrmusic OP
125 posts
 

@audphile1 

I will check out Coda and Kidman. And thanks for suggesting the Harbeth forum. 
 

@jeffreyw 

Yes the Benchmark doesn’t match the quality of the new front end. That’s why I’m looking for an alternative. 
 

@12many 

My dealer carries Bryston. He has all the equipment I purchased so I can demo the exact combination in the showroom or borrow the Bryston for a few days. He doesn’t carry Benchmark. I just got the Harbeths and really like them. So they’re staying. 

jfrmusic OP
125 posts
 

@audphile1 

sorry Coda and Luxman 

jfrmusic OP
125 posts
 

@jeffreyw 

I was conflicted about spending that much on the front end but I sounded so great. I remember from my old analog days not paying enough for the front end.  Once I committed to a Linn Turntable and Arm and Koetsu cartridge I was finally satisfied. I didn’t want to go through the endless upgrade path. Plus at my age time is a consideration. 

12many
228 posts
 

@jfrmusic I know what I would do.  I would order the 2nd AHB2 and compare it to your single amp and see if you can tell a difference.  I would also get a home demo of the Bryston and demo it against the single and dual AHB2.   That is a perfect comparison scenario.  You may find that a single AHB2 is all you need or pick one of the other two options.

Have you adjusted the gain switch on the back of your AHB2 and can you tell a difference other than volume?  I think the middle position sounds the best - fuller with more body (even when adjusted to the same general volume) - than the lowest gain position.  I have read that technically it should sound the same so maybe it is just in my head.   

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