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Best amp for B&W Nautilus 804? Looking for advice.

Howdy,

I own a pair of B&W Nautilus 804's and I'm looking for a new (used) amp/preamp to drive them. I'm currently using a Classe CAP-151 which is adequate but I'm looking for more. Looking for a broader, deeper soundstage and a live, real sound (at least as much as my budget will allow).

Right now I'm looking on the used market for one of these three set-ups: 1)Classe 47.5 Pre / CA-301 Power; 2)Krell KRC3 Pre / FPB200 Power; 3) Krell KAV 500i. Any other options in this price range?

Don't have a krell dealer in the area so I can't audition. Hoping anyone familiar with that equipment will offer their opinion.

Thanks all, John
miner

Showing 1 response by drjjpdc

drjjpdc
81 posts
 
I too would like some help. I have a pair of Matrix 804's. I have been in the market for a new power amp. Presently I am using a Carver 705x (125 wpc) 5 channel as a power amp with an AI3 pre-amp. I tried the Transcendent compact 150 wpc and did not think there was that much difference. Maybe I have tin ears? My last hope for a new tube amp in my price range is a Rogue I think. Used there may be others. I would like some advice on other amps ($2000 new or used). Belles, used krell, I don't really know. I like orchestral and I sometimes get up to the 90 db range or so for short periods. BTW somebody from customer service at B&W told me not to even think about a low powered tube amp or even SS at less than 100wpc. Any thoughts out there to confuse me further?
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