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Pass, Mac, or Anthem

Currently have HT system but used extensively for 2channel. Mains are B&W 803D. Using Anthem D2 and A5 for electronics. Would like to add a 2ch amp, later a preamp. The 803D is a bit of a difficult load so was thinking about the Pass 350, Mac 402, or Anthem P2. Anyone have any experience or recommendations? Any other SS amp that I should consider for these speakers? Thanks.
vayjay
roxy54's avatar
roxy54
8,202 posts
 
I have owned Pass X250.5 and several Macs, the most recent an MC300. I would say go for the Mac. They are full, and natural sounding. I felt that the Pass was somewhat grainy and electronic sounding.
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musicnoise
377 posts
 
I use the 402 for 803S's. Listened to it drive the 803D's and the 802D's - plenty of power for both versions of the 803's and just shy of plenty of power to drive the 802D to its max spl. More importantly, in comparison with a Classe, the 402 sounded a lot better. Listened to the Anthem P2 driving pardigm signatures - wasn't impressed. But not the same speaker.
vayjay OP
9 posts
 
Thanks for the input. I have listened to the 803Ds wih the Mac 501s and was impressed, but sounds like the 402 may do the trick.
adamg
89 posts
 
I have the 402 driving a pair of B&W CDM 9 NTs. I rarely require more than an indicated 40w on the meters to get high SPLs. Very seductive sounding amplifier.
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