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What amp sounds best with the B&W 803D Speakers?

I bought the B&W 803D Speakers after hearing them paired with the McIntosh MC 402 amp. Definitely, I thought the sound was excellent. Though I have not heard them paired with the Classe amp (anyone hear the CT 2300), that is suppose to be a great match. Did anyone hear both, and what are the similarities and differences between Classe and McIntosh? I appreciate the feedback.
tommy2112
keithr
1,306 posts
 
McIntosh is not owned by B&W.
realhifi
159 posts
 
ARC. The new 200DSi integrated at 200 watts will make those sound out of this world. ARC also now has a 400 watt
version of that circuit in a power amplifier (DS400) that will be all you would ever need with those. Either of these amps will (in my opinion) trounce the Macs or Classe's and will make you VERY happy indeed.
toetapfactor
77 posts
 
I have no experience with Classe but IMO Mac amps are generally slow and colored with a house sound I dislike,B&W is slow and has a horrible tweeter.I would go with an amp that is faster and has better bass control for those speakers.
realhifi
159 posts
 
ARC DSi200 integrated amp at 200 watts into 8 ohms.
If you liked how they sounded with McIntosh you will flip over how they respond to Audio Research. If you get a chance, try to hear the new DS400 amp from them along with
one of their tube preamps also (LS17, LS26). You'll be spoiled in about 5 min.
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