Benchmark AHB2 Experiments


I’ve been using one AHB2 amplifier for a couple of years. I recently acquired a 2nd AHB2, thinking that the sound quality might be better if I used only one channel of each amp, with both amps set for Stereo.

In this configuration, the ease and resolution improved. Sibilants, the "s" sounds, became more natural and connected to the singer instead of sounding like a separate sound. The natural ring of cymbals also increased, sounding less like hiss and more like metal. Soundstage depth increased, too.

Take aways: If using one AHB2, adding a 2nd amp with both amps in Stereo mode and using only one channel of each amp provides a noticeable improvement.

If using two amps in Mono, and if you don’t need the added power you get with the amps in Mono, try the above configuration.

Happy listening!

imjerrys

Showing 1 response by imjerrys

I didn't spend much time using the amps in mono mode, so I haven't drawn conclusions about that configuration. Mono sounds a little different than Stereo, but that difference is smaller than when ‘Using’ two stereo amps in one-channel mode.

My speakers have a sensitivity of 88 dB (B&W 805 D4 Signature) and I never see the protection lights on the amp(s) when running in Stereo mode, so more testing in Mono is needed.