2. home-theater
  3. 1062636884

Multi-Channle Amp Dilemma

I am trying to decide between the following amplifiers for my HT set-up: Theta Dreadnaught II, Pass X150 (front r&l) and an X3 for rears and center, Bat 6200 and a Classe CAV-180. I use a Krell 7.1 for my processor and have B&W N803's for the fronts, the HTM2 center and N805s for the rears. I recently sold my Bryston 9B because I did not think it brought out the best in my speakers. I would like to make the best choice, so that I can sit back and enjoy the music and movies. By the way, I use the system 70% for HT and 30% for 2 channel.

As always, your thoughts are very much appreciated.
tdavism3
blw
147 posts
 
FWIW the Cary got a glowing review in the most recent Perfect Vision. I haven't heard one yet, though.

The Classe is a good piece - not equal to biamped BAT-6200's, but also about a fifth of the price. I've only heard it driving Martin Logans and ProAcs, but it sounds very good in those configs: smooth, grain-free and detailed.
satfrat
64 posts
 
Hi, I have a friend with a Krell 7.1 pre/pro and he raves about his new Butler Audio 5150 tube hybrid amp. He`s running Dynaudio speakers with this 5 channel 150 wpc amp and he`s constantly being floored by this amp`s dynamics. I`m in the process of trying out 2 Butler 3150`s with 6 total channels that I`m pairing with a Sunfire Theater Grand 3. This guy is convinced that this is the best amp that he`s ever had and he`s had a few. Just some thoughts to share. Happy hunting. Regards, Robin
randmac
3 posts
 
I agree with the Butler amp suggestion. After seeing this amp at the HE show in San Francisco I decided to order one. With the SF Cremonas and Auditors it is fatanstic - non-fatiguing yet detailed and impressively dynamic. Tubes in the output stage, all for less than $2500 (this price was a show special only, list is @ $3200 I believe). Get a hold of Luis at Butler for more information if needed....he's a good guy.
satfrat
64 posts
 
I`ve had my 2 Butler Audio 3150 tube amps w/150 wpc @8ohms thru 6 channels breaking in for a week now and must agree with Randmac & JohnB, these Butler amps are incredibly detailed and dynamic with no fatigue whatsoever. This is a wonderful departure from my previous Yamaha. And the blue tube glow presentation from these 2 Butler 3150`s surrounding my Sunfire Theater Grand 3 processor`s blue display in my audio rack is absolutely KILLER! Highly recommended IMHO. Regards, Robin
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