Perreaux 350P

I wonder if it was a specific problem to Tvad's unit.

I used to have a Perreaux 200iP integrated amp, which is the 200P amp plus an active preamp section. Anyway I remember demoing Martin Logan Ascent speakers with the integrated which are a notorious tough load, and the amp drove them to stupid loud volumes without problem.

It got a little hotter than usual, which was to be expected, because I was used to driving much more efficient speakers, but it was still cool enough to touch...

Anyway I've had experience with Perreaux amps, much smaller and less powerful than the 350P and they have been really reliable.

By the way, they sound great in my opinion. Plus they have a really high damping factor which means they have really good control of the speakers, that's something the N802's will really like. The bass performance of the Perreaux amps I've tried, is the best I've heard in their price range(including Krell), the mids are rich(not in a tube kind of way, but...) and they highs are clear and extended...I have a great opinion about Perreaux amps and their performance...

I am driving 802's with a 350P. No problems in handling the load. Much better at higher volumes though. I haven't had them too long so I am still experimenting with cables and speaker position etc. An upgraded power cable is a must. I got an Eichman express power cable and the difference was immediate. Huge increase in dynamics.

Just to follow up on my previous posting. This afternoon I spent 3 hours trying diferent speaker positions. My 802'2 were originally about 8 feet apart and seemed to lack a bit or dynamics and pace. Imaging was great. I moved them further apart and voila, there it was. massive soundstage, brilliant imaging and tons of PRT. The 350P drives them with ease. Once again you must get a decent power lead. I tried it without the Eichman again this afternoon and the sound was dull and flat. I don't know what these cords go for in the states. Over here they retail for about the equivalent of $300. Great bang for your buck.

We are driving Piega C-10 ltd with a 350p and it works perfectly. We have traded a pair of Halcro DM 58s and a pair of Goldmund 29.4 for the mono version 750p due to the excellent drive chacteristics and sound quality. A 350p will drive your B&W excellent.

What is the opinion of folks who used Perreaux Amps without a Pre. Can a passive pre really do justice to a Perreaux amp? How about driving it straight from the output of a CD player?

I know preamps are an important part of the chain, but just curious how important it is for a Perreaux amp from yesteryear. 3150B? 2150B?