2. amps-preamps
  3. 1322508116

Need advice: Biamping vs. dual bridged monos

I am now the proud owner of two Classe CA-100 power amps. I had one, loved it, then saw another available at an excellent price and couldn't walk away without it. So now I've got two.

...But now I need some guidance. With two 2-channel amps, what is the best way to power my speakers (Magnepan 3.5 in stock form, no modifications)?

I could use the CA-100s in mono mode; in mono mode they are rated (per the manufacturer's specs) for 350 watts each into 8 ohms, or 600W into 4 ohms.

Or I could use them in stereo mode and bi-amp my Maggies.

Which method is generally regarded as the better method?

If I go with bi-amping, then I need to get a new preamp because my old Denon preamp has only one set of pre-outs. Or is there a suitable way around that too?

Any insight you all can provide is greatly appreciated. As you can tell, I didn't put a lot of planning and forethought into this, I just saw a great deal on a Classe CA-100 and couldn't walk away from it.

Thanks!
doug_in_virginia

Showing 1 response by ngjockey

ngjockey
1,042 posts
 
Although I have no experience with the CA-100's, the Maggies are not that difficult a load, despite their power appetite and low impedance.

Tried to do some research on the CA-100's and found mixed results for bridging. By the specs, they should be capable and they are rated for bridged operation into 4 ohms. For best results, use XLR interconnects if possible because the amp becomes differentially balanced when bridged.

This assumes that they are actually bridged as opposed to being "parallelled", which is not always a safe assumption.

Wouldn't hurt to try.
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