Details for bi-amping


I am going for a horizontal bi-amping of my system intending to use two tube monoblocs for the mids and the highs and two SS monoblocks for the lows. The issue is that I have to have the same gain of the Pre-amps driving all the four monos in order to avoid a difference. Some Pre-amps have a pair of outputs allowing them to drive two pairs of monoblocks. Would that be a good solution? Would that be a solution at all giving that the tube monos and the SS monos would most probably have different output power? Would the use of a single Pre-amp with two pairs of monos negatively affect the sound quality? Or I should go for two Pre-amps trying to match theeir gains? I will very much apreciate any hint. Tnx.
nikmilkov

Showing 3 responses by nikmilkov

Thanks Stan for your quick reply. My ignorance needs a lot of clarification. I intend to use two matched pairs of monos. As you said in this case I will need a level control for the more sensitive pair. Saying "sensitive" do you mean more powerful? If yes, how could I make this setup? Obviously the level control of the single Pre-amp is not useful for that because it would attenuate (lower) the output volume of all the four monoblocks.
Thanks, guys, for your help and instructive suggestions. Frankly I didn't expect so many advises which obviously is because the biamping option is highly attractive for many but also because it is a complicated issue. At least for me. I didn't post a single word since yesterday because of the 7 hours of time difference. But it gave me some time to think. So for sure I'll gonna go for a simple solution. Probably the use of 4 identical amps driven by a single pre-amp. Under this setup the advantage of the SS's in the lows will obviously be lost. (Just because I prefer tubes.) Another element of a simple solution seems to be the passive biamping but I am still doubtful to what extend it worths the effort - the result is modest compared to the investment. For summarizing - going for a simple solution I will loose the main advantages of the biamping option. The questions are 1) does it still worth the efforts and the money and 2) are the risks of messing up the things bigger than the modest output that can be expected.
Realy tempted to try the active option as more efficient. I have two pairs of speakers PD 80 by Tyler acoustics and von Shweikert VR 4 Jr on two systems. As all of you, guys, know both are 3 way. One pair will be biamped depending on which one is easier to eliminate the built in crossovers. My choice may also depend on and I may take into consideration also other specs and details for each one pair of speakers leading to more rewarding results. I will address the manufacturing companies. My preference now is for the PD's because they are very efficient and easy to drive with less powerful tube amplifiers. A low output tube amplifier can be built on a very simple scheme which could result in a very clear and detailed sound. Last but not least a low output tube amp is usually cheaper than a high output tube amp of the same quality. You see the future set up should be built around the speakers that are already in place. Have heard both Ty and Albert are willing to help by advising. Unfortunately my remote location will not allow these companies to perform the crossover's bypass. But if I won't be 100% sure in advance that the things are doable the active way I will go passive. That's my strategy by now. Thank you again for your competent advise.