MC275 in Mono, but which way?


Let's say we have two identical units of MC275 (unit A and unit B). And the speakers are designed for bi-amping.

There are two different ways of running them in mono:

(1) Assuming your preamp has two identical sets of left/right outputs (i.e. L1/R1 and L2/R2). First, connect L1 to the left input of unit A; secondly, connect L2 to the right input of unit A; next, connect the left output (+ and -) of unit A to the high-pass binding posts of the left speaker; and finally, connect the right output (+ and -) of unit A to the low-pass binding posts of the left speaker. For two speakers, this configuration requires 2 pairs of interconnects and 2 pairs of single speaker wires (no jumpers required).

(2) This is the 'conventional' way of running mono. First, connect L1 to the left input of unit A; then use jumper cables to link the left and right outputs of unit A; then connect speaker cables from either the left or right output of unit A to the speakers.

Have anyone tested both configuration? And if so, please share your experience.

Thank you.

viper_z

Showing 1 response by casouza

Great amplifier! I wish I had not sold mine.
It is very difficult to bi-amp with different amplifiers and achieve a coherent sound. I have never managed to do it properly, even with matched gain amps. Each amp has its own speed and sound signature.

Option two is a paralell configuration for current-hungry speakers.
From the Mac site:
MONOBLOCK
The two 75-watt channels may be combined into a single channel of 150 watts
into 2, 4 or 8-Ohm loads."
Note that 16 ohms is no longer an option and 2 ohms is available for power-hungry speakers.
Option 2 will probably sound better in the bass than option 1, given that your speakers have low to medium efficiency...however, option 1 (vertically bi-amping) separates the bass signal (heavy current demands on the tubes) from the midrange and treble signal (low voltage, low current, requires extremely low distortion). It will probably sound best regarding midrange cleanliness and soundstaging.

So, I believe we have come full circle: you should try and see what you like best.
Good luck