Stereo or monoblocks


I recently bought a pair of the JBL HDI-3800 speakers. I also own a McIntosh C-2300 preamp. Should I buy a used McIntosh mc402 stereo power amp or try to find a pair of a different brands monoblocks? The new Schiit Tyr has my interest.

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Showing 3 responses by ditusa

@noromance Wrote:

Monoblocs are the icing on the cake when it comes to stereo imaging, micro-detailing, increased soundstage, and lowered noise floor. Once you mono, can’t go back.

I agree 2000%!

Mike

@kota1 Wrote:

It is interesting to see the enthusiasm with monoblocks and if you like monoblocks you will love active speakers which typically have hand picked monoblocks... for each driver. 

I love monoblocks and active speakers.  The speakers below have an active crossover with no power amps built in and are excellent speakers. Also, my home audio speakers are actively bi-amped with 4 mono block amps, no built in power amps and sound great. A speaker, with built in power amp(s), is called a powered speaker, active or passive is in reference to a speakers crossover topology. In my opinion, amps inside speakers is not a good idea because the amps are subject to all the vibrations and air pressure inside the speaker cabinet. FWIW, my speakers are JBL 4435's. 😎

Mike