Review: Bedini Electronics BA-801 Amplifier


Category: Amplifiers

I have been in search of a Bedini 801 amplifier for quite some time. I finally found a beauty from a fellow Audiogon member. I am a jazz drummer and listen to mostly newer jazz artists and classical recordings. This amplifier just makes the Audio Physics sing with authority. The soundstage and imaging extends far beyond the speakers and just has that "i'm there" sense. I replaced a tube power amp with the Bedini and almost fell of my chair. The bass firmed up and the highs were not edgy at all. I could not be happier with this amp. It will be in my system for a long time. The only faults I can find with this amplifier are the use of a non removable power cord, and plastic binding posts. The best part of this amplifier is that although discontinued since about 1990, Bedini still has product support and repair service.
I had been told that Class a amps get very hot. I do not find this to be the case. It does get rather warm to the touch, but never too hot to touch.
Overall, I think this amplifier is the proverbial diamond in the rough.

Associated gear
Audio Physic new Sparks V4
CAL CL-15 CD player
Forte Model 2 Preamplifier
Synergistic research Alpha X2 Cables
Project xpression2 turntable

Similar products
Rotel RB980bx, B&K EX442 Sonata,
Rogue Audio 88 Magnum, Sonic Frontiers power 2, Anthem amp 1
skipper320

Showing 4 responses by autospec

I'll second that, I have about six Bedini amps and I love them ......And I like the Bedini service with John and Gary Bedini in control......Thanks to them the legacy lives on.........
I was talking to John Bedini the other day and he told me that had just found two new 801's in his shop, so if you want one, now might be your last chance.....autospec
I have two of John Bedini kt-88 mono amps ....I'm working with John to maybe build a few more of them..... I have two more test amps that I am working on with John right now, But Johns brother Gary is quite sick right now and John is spending quite a bit of time helping him......autospec
These Bedini KT-88 amps were designed many years ago, they are far from a new design........And if you have a 25/25 IMO you have the best solid state Bedini amp........I have several of them............autospec