What amp for B&W 803 MATRIX S2 fronts for HT only?

I like using higher dedicated power amps for your 2 front speakers (ie, as you suggest, using your pre-outs into the new amp). The B&W guys also own (and use) Classe Audio with their stuff. To a degree, they probably do voice them togehter a bit...just makes commercial sense...and the high power reserves of Class would suit the B&Ws well which can take high power (and use it to good effect).

I ment the bi-amp. my elite allows for this. but also allows for seprates. I like the "older" amp and more bang for the buck ideas. That is more of what I am looking for. although my hearing is not all that good, I would still like quality. The "used" market is great for a buyer now and I thought it was time to change out my CDM1's for somthing else, although these speakers are a few years older than my CDM'S I have been told the MAtrix 803's series 2 would be a "VAST" improvement over what I have. Any thoughts or comments on the change in speakers?

I actually like the older Matrixes quite a bit. I think you will find the 803s provide you with a much bigger soundstages which you might well enjoy. The also will continue to use up whatever additional power you throw at them from your new amps. If it were me, i would definitely go for the 803s. good luck.

If you do go for the matrix speakers - post up a review - I'd be interested as I still have my CDM1NTs for my setup and am very pleased, still, with their performance for both HT and music in my hybrid rig.

If you're not trying to spend too terribly much, you might try to go after an Adcom 5802. You should be able to find one for ~$800. They'll plenty of power for the 803's (or any other speaker for that matter). They're smooth and detailed without but don't really get overly bright. I think it's a great match for the tonal balance of the Matrix 803.