B&W Nautilus 800N . Best amp & preamp setup ?

My N800 are driven by Krell FPB 700Cx + KCT via CAST interface with excellent results. The N800s are great speakers as expected. I was surprised to hear good sound from a pair of vintage HK Citation IIs in mono (~130W/ch) but the bass couldn't keep up the demand. For a kick, I also hooked up an old Yamaha MX-1 200w/ch SS amp and was pleasantly surprised as well with tight bass and good mids/highs but coming short to the Krell in refined sound. But considering the cost difference, I could live with the MX-1 driving the N800s.

Ki

After auditioning a few amps and pre-amps, I ended up the McIntosh C46 pre-amp and the MC402 power amp for my system. After a year and a half I am still very pleased with my choice. Another important factor is the music source. When I used my old CD player, the sound left a lot to be desired --- muddy and lacking in punch. Then I got a Linn Unidisk 1.1 through an Audiogon seller ----- and magic! I can honestly say I find this setup a pure joy!

This will be a shocker for most of you. I am powering my Nautilus 800n with an Accuphase A20v. This is a pure class A 20w amp. My B&W dealer is incredulous, but this rig sounds fantastic. I have to agree that there is a bit to be desired with low end punch, but the mids and highs are remarkable. I am currently running with no preamp (yes its loud) and an Ayre disc player on the front end. I am not saying this is my final configuration, but I have enjoyed this for the past year. Go figure. . .

Interesting...20w/ch...

Did anyone try biamping the N800s with identical stereo power amps? I would imagine one has to disconnect the internal crossover and get an active crossover to do it right.

Ki

The best thing I can advice is look for a powerfull amp with a 'musical' sound. You need a lot of power or you will have a lack of bass. And I also can advice you an amp which had a warm 'musical' sound. Use powercables who are capable of delivering a lot of power and control like the Purist Audio can do. You also can use a SS poweramp with a tube pre-amp.