Nuforce step up from Sunfire for B&W 803N?

I auditioned the Ref9V2SE with speakers that are 8 ohm nominal, but have dips below 5 ohms.

Compared with amps that double power as impedance is halved, the NuForce amps produced unbalanced frequency response that was light in the bass, resulting in a tipped up sound.

Otherwise the NuForce amps sounded very good.

They are worth an audition. Just pay particular attention to tonal balance on the B&W speakers.

Thanks for responses so far. As I step up in the world of hi fi, clearly there is no perfect fit. I am very happy with the sound of my setup, but I've caught the bug and am now looking to make it even better if I can within my restrictions of low heat and smaller size amp chassis. I am trying to figure out what I would like to improve in the SQ, and one thing is the visceral impact of bass (organ, kettle drum, etc) and the sharpness of the "thwack". Hence my concern over power, although I've heard that the nuforce has great damping which also contributes to tight bass and may improve the areas I've mentioned above. I may want to smooth out and separate instruments some overly bright or dense recordings, although I'm splitting hairs here. In fact, this may be more a preamp issue, but I'm thinking the bass is an amp issue, no? Another thought is the Spectron. Still interested in Nuforce vs Sunfire opinions too though.

Jeffkad, the NuForce amps are available with an essentially no-cost home audition via the NuForce Demo program (you pay for shipping). Why not try them for yourself?

The bass impact issue is one that might be affected by the power output specs of the NuForce Ref9V2SE, but you should hear the combo to decide for yourself.

The Spectron amp doubles power output into 4 ohms, although it does not double again into 2 ohms, but nevertheless it will likely produce better tonal balance on your speakers than will the NuForce, IMO.

If you're looking predominantly at chip amps, you might consider the H20 Audio monoblocks (which are also available with a home trial). These amps also double power output as impedance is halved.

Tvad, thanks so much for your responses. Not sure what you meant by "The bass impact issue is one that might be affected by the power output specs of the NuForce Ref9V2SE". Did you mean affected positively (more impact) or negatively (less impact). I inferred the latter, but want to be sure. As for in-home, I'm really looking at used purchase. A combo of used nufore and a tube pre like Dodd, Modwright, etc, brings me in at 4.5k or less, which I can live with. Actually, would never buy amp new in this mkt, as depreciation is so favorable to used buyer. Now, if I go with the Spectron, that kills my budget for a good preamp. Of course, maybe I should get preamp first as that may have bigger overall impact, but I'm still sorting all this out. Right now, trying to clarify what the nuforce might bring to the table vs the sunfire, and/or if their are other options. (Wish I had room, money and house current to get a Plinius Odean or Simaudio Titan!!!).

03-02-09: Jeffkad
Not sure what you meant by "The bass impact issue is one that might be affected by the power output specs of the NuForce Ref9V2SE". Did you mean affected positively (more impact) or negatively (less impact).

I meant negatively due to the fact that the NuForce will produce less volume in the bass frequencies relative to the mids and highs, therefore potentially resulting in a presentation that lacks bass weight and punch as compared with some other amps that we've discussed.

I understand wanting to buy used. I've done it myself for five years.

However, before you dismiss the idea of using the NuForce home demo program, take the time to contact a NuForce dealer. You might be surprised at the possibilities. I know I was.