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MBL 9011 v/s Boulder 2050 monos

Hi,
Would like a shootout between the two monster amps. I would like to choose between the two based on my preferences:
1)Extreme neutrality
2)Ultimate transparency
3)Superb sound staging.
Would encourage folks to describe in as objective terms as possible (Lows, mids highs etc)
Enjoy.
-Sthekepat
sthekepat

Showing 4 responses by sthekepat

sthekepat OP
12 posts
 
The preamp : MBL 6010D reference preamp
The speakers: Usher Be-10 / Kharma 3.2FE (own the 3.2)
Proac 1s (own these also)
CD Transport: Oracle 1000 (New)
DAC: PT P3A , P1A (BEst so far)
Speaker cables: Silver ovals Analysis plus
Ics: Nordost valhalla
I was hoping for a difference in sound characteristics. I own the Boulder 2050 monos right now & thinking if the MBL would sound more in tune with my stated preferences.
Is it worth the change ?
My impressions: Listening to these great amps in different setups does not make for fair comparisons, but here are my thoughts.
The MBL sounded more warmer and softer but with higher extension on the top. The boulder had better lows and also had a warm midrange but more to the neutral side.
Maybe boulder had better detail ???
Any input guys ???
sthekepat OP
12 posts
 
Has anyone compared the MBL 9011 v/s 9008A s ?
Would be interesting to hear the sonic differences !!
sthekepat OP
12 posts
 
Thanks Osgorth.
I will be considering speakers pretty soon. My room is a dedicated room of about 22 x 15 x 9. I got e-mails from some who swear by the 9011s being the most transparent amp of all and as you mentioned with the MBL preamp it might make a swell combo. In about 10 days, I will have a shootout between the boulder 2050s and the mbl 9011s. Will post the results soon after.
sthekepat OP
12 posts
 
I did make an A/B comparison in my home of the 2050 monos with the Burmester 911 MK3.
The burmester had a liquidity that the boulders couldn't match. The Detail was better with burmester. The 911 was more open & transparent with a more natural tonality to it. The Boulder seemed constrained in the higher octaves compared to the german contender. The midrange was very clean on the 911s where the boulder produced an infused warmth.
The Boulders were better in imaging, I guess since they were monoblocks.
Well, I'm still in shock ....
I tried switching several cables and direct connections without the MBL 6010 preamp, but through all configurations the german amp was clearly better.
Any comments ?
Are the burmesters comparable to the MBLs ?
Thanks
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