2. amps-preamps
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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 2 responses by miner

miner OP
2 posts
 
Thanks for the advice. To be honest with you I didn't even know the CAM-200 was out there. Pulled up their web site and found it marked "new". Haven't been able to find any reviews on the net though. Would you really go with a pair of CAM-200's over a CA-300/301? Price is great, $3,600.00 MSRP for a pair but I can get a used 301 in that range. I guess I've read so many great reviews about the 301.

I've gotta confess I'm a novice. What are the advantages of mono blocks? Also what will they do for my N804's that the CAP-151 can't do? What else will I need for that kind of set-up?

Sorry about all the questions. Thanks again.

John
miner OP
2 posts
 
Well, there's another option I hadn't considered. Found a wealth of excellent info on tubes vs SS in the forum archives so I won't burden you with too many questions. One quick one though, what tube amp set-up is suitable for the N804's. (my budget is $2500 to $4500 and I'm looking on the used market too.

Thanks again.

John
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