2. amps-preamps
  3. 1397183124

Amp recommendation for B&W 801 Matrix SII speakers

I recently acquired a set of B&W 801 Matrix SII speakers. I am looking to acquire both an amp and a preamp to match up with the B&Ws. These speakers are very inefficient so I need something with lots of power. I am guessing 350 watts at least. I have really got power amp on my mind first with a budget of $5000-$10000 or thereabouts. I want something new or no more than a couple of years old.

I currently have a MAC pre C2300, MC275 amp and Klipschorn speakers. This is a system that I really like but I am thinking with the B&Ws I probably will want to go SS state on the power amp. The MC275 is not a good match for the B&Ws. Needing a lot of watts probably takes me out of tube territory. I am not an audiophile so i really don't know what all is out there.

Some amps that interest me are:

Pass Labs X350.8 $13500
Pass Labs X250.8 $9600
Mcintosh MC452 $7500

Thanks for the help....
wemfan

Showing 3 responses by effischer

effischer
553 posts
 
I'm a huge Mc fan, but agree with both Czarivey and Mitch2. The MC452 was not one of their better efforts, IMO. I gather you've tried your MC275 and probably found it soft in the bottom end with the 801s. You will need to get serious about going for higher current to bring out the best the 801s can offer.

When I was auditioning stuff a few years ago, I thought the MC302 blew the 452 clean away. The 302 was far more musical and neutral in comparison. I also found it superior to a similarly powered and priced Krell (don't recall the model now). After getting the 302 home and running it with my Rogers Studio 1s (very similar to the 801 in efficiency and balance) and C2300, I was very pleased with my choice and remain so.

The only change I've made since was to go with a C50 in place of the 2300. The tube warm-up time was just too long for me and I can't leave things on 24/7 because I'm rarely home.

Good luck & happy listening!
effischer
553 posts
 
MC302 is a newer design than the 452. They changed something and it definitely improved the sound, IMO. That's the fun of the hobby - finding the pleasant surprise!
effischer
553 posts
 
Just did a double-check on Audio Classics' site and realized I made a mistake - had auditioned a 402, not a 452. Not sure how much difference it really made; the 452 is really only an update of 402. So many variables when doing demos, anyway. Still wouldn't trade my 302 - it works wonderfully in my room with my speakers. Price does not equal quality and is never the bottom line.

BTW, I believe the 801 Series II are some of the finest speakers ever made by anyone. I'm way jealous!
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