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How do I power my 800D(3)s

Hi folks

I am new to this, but trying to learn fast!

I have long been a fan of Bowers and Wilkins and I am lucky enough to buy a brand new pair of 800D(3)'s.  I have recently built a new house, so now have enough space for this very special purchase, which I plan to make in the next month or so.

I want to run a two channel system in our living room so it's a pretty simple layout.  Can anybody give me some advice, so that I get the best out of the speakers.  Will a Pre-Amp, and an Amp be enough with a Streamer?  Do I need two amps?  

Can you also advise on the best brands to look at.  I see that B&W tends to show the speakers off in thier demo's with Classe?  Any thoughts?

Thanks in advance.

Matt
matt_gf
fossda
108 posts
 
I own a pair of 800D and these speakers like quality power. They are faily efficient but have a tougher load. I am running a 300 watt Edge pre/power and have heard them with 600w classes mono. Look for quality first. Great purchase.
steakster
720 posts
 
OP:  Re: high powered, refined amp. You might want to check out the PBN Audio Olympia EBSA2.
joey_v
455 posts
 
@samac 

The Rotel RB1590 sounded warm with the 802D3, I had it in my room at the SAME time as 3 other amps (Cary 211fe, Classe CAM600 monoblocks, and Boulder).  

It was not shamed by the rest of the gear other than the Boulder.  

It sounded very acceptable and it was very good for the $2999 that it is.  

The soundstage seemed cramped and narrow.  There was less dynamics.  

But I could live with it. 

I a/b'd the Classe M600 against the MAC 601 at the store, I brought my amps there and plunked it on top of the 601... we listened to the 802D3.  I came away liking the 601 more.  It was warmer but still had the impact of the Classe M600. 

The Boulder smokes them all.  

Funny how the Classe M600 was used to tune the speakers, but clearly not the best with these other super amps in the picture.  

Cary 211FE is a little weak with bass.... but there is an etherealness to the vocals that is just superb. 

So though I sold my 211FE to my brother, I am looking to bring back some Cary tubes (805AE) monoblocks to my system just for vocalists. 
samac's avatar
samac
419 posts
 
@joey_v 

Thanks for your impressions of the Rotel RB1590/802D3. The RB1590 sounds like a very good amp.

Your impressions of the Classe M600 is interesting as well. I've heard them on the 803D2 and 802D3. I really want to love Classe gear but can't warm up to it.

Cheers,

Scott


kalali's avatar
kalali
1,645 posts
 
Pass X350.8/XP-20 and McIntosh MC601/C2500. Heard them both with 800D2s, large living room with 20' ceilings. Really wanted to love the Pass combo but for whatever reason the McIntosh just sounded so much smoother and more liquid on Jazz/Blues and classical material. The Pass combo sounded incredible for 80's rock material like Pink Floyd, etc. Awesome kick in the gutt bass at moderately high volumes. Excellent speakers nonetheless.
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