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Belles Reference 150A or Reference 350A?

I have been putting together an upgraded system -- after 3 years in Tokyo (where you couldn't play music loud enough to enjoy it) I'm now building a listening room. I have a Belles Reference 150A -- I can't really tell you how it sounds because my B&W 802D's arrived with 2 broken tweeters... Buy, I have been looking at the Belles Reference 350A.

Can anyone out there comment on the difference? I using an Audio Research preamp -- should I step up to the 350?

Thanks for your 2 cents.
aj4value
4 responses Add your response
aj4value OP
4 posts
 
Thank you guys this is very helpful. I may also have a line on a E.A.R. 890. I have a to decide between solid state and tubes. I have a tube preamp. Does anyone see any issues with the combination with tubes in both the preamp and the amp??

Thanks again
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,479 posts
 
Yes the 350 would be a far better choice. The only thing better would be two Ref 150 as monos.
davt's avatar
davt
500 posts
 
I am very familiar with the 802D and owned the Ref 150 for a few years and spent time with the Ref. 350. I would strongly favor the 350, more power, more control etc. I would make sure you either got a new one or if used that it had the soft start to avoid a very big 'thump' on power on/off. Great amp.
ecruz
402 posts
 
I'm not familiar with your speakers, but I have owned both the Ref 150A & the Ref 350A. I was using them to drive Vandersteen 3A Signatures. The 350A obviously provides some extra power. Which was good, as the 3A Signatures are only 88db. But I prefered the sound of the 150A. To me it was a little more open & airy. But again, that was with Vandersteens, which are not known for their treble. With your B&W's, the 350A may be the perfect match.
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