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January 1, 2015, 03:42 AM #1
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mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Hi folks I am really new to this and joined the forum for some help to decide between few choices...
I have recently bought 802 diamonds and intend to gradually build a home theater around and need help with power amplifiers..here are some options available to me..
Option a
Classe cam 300 monoblocks vs classe 2300...space is not an issue and I am more interested to find out if 2300 will be as good as 300 monoblocks or worth another 2K. ..I will have OPPO 105 and pioneer LX75 to use as preamp at the moment..I also have bowers 686 as surrounds, but no center at present...
Option b
McIntosh mc302 stereo( 300x2) which is in my budget vs newer mc425 (450x2 ) worth another 4K. ...?
Option c
Krell duo 300 newer amp 300rd watts stereo or bryston 4K sst2
Price wise bryston is the cheapest with best warranty
Krell mcintosh 302 and classe 2300 and krell duo 300 stereo amps are same price....
I luv the sound of classe cam 300 but felt increasing the volume all the time but sound was very soothing to ears...I listen to all types of music...unfortunately no other place here offers me option to simultaneously hear the combo with 802 diamond series...I will be truly grateful from all of yous to help me pick the right amp...
cheers
Current gear
speakers bowers 802 diamond bowers 686 jamo 507, home theatre pioneer LX75, Burson conductor headphone amplifier headphones audeze lcd2 Sen 600 ultrasones900
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January 1, 2015, 07:34 AM #2
Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Bump.
My vote is for the 2300.My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
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January 1, 2015, 10:12 AM #3
Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Welcome to AS !
Of the brands of amps you have mentioned, I would go with Classe'. They are a great match with your 802 diamonds.Mark
Kharma DB9 Signature
Pass Labs XP32......incoming
Pass Labs X350.8
Esoteric N-05XD
VPI Avenger with Magnetic Drive
Manley Chinook Phono Pre
Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge
Kharma Elegance speaker cables
Kharma Elegance interconnects
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January 1, 2015, 10:40 AM #4
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Classé is a typical match for B&W 802 Diamonds and an obvious choice. It's nice gear and it gets down to personal choice.
If you are going to build a hybrid 2ch/multi-ch system, I think brand synergy is key. You need to decide now what direction to go else you will waste money down the line.
You are weighing up Classé vs McIntosh vs Krell vs Bryston to drive B&W loudspeakers. Consider each brand's product lines and try to visualise the additional components you will be purchasing to build a hybrid 2ch/HT system with a budget in mind. Add 30% to that budget because there are hidden trappings going hybrid multi-ch. You will be building a complex system.
Personally I'm not a fan of Classé being a McIntosh guy. I have a very high regard for Bryston for value and support. I would probably choose Bryston over Classé for the longer term purpose you have in mind.
If I were to suggest a start for you, I would be biased and say go with the McIntosh MC452. A great fully balanced stereo amp. An amp that could be repurposed should you wish to scale up and use it to drive side surrounds in the future. A multi-ch amp will be required either way. That basis would commit you to building a McIntosh rig. If resale or collectibility are also value considerations, McIntosh is renowned for holding greater resale value longer term.
Speakeasy
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January 1, 2015, 11:10 AM #5
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
i have the 2300 running my 800 diamonds and it does it with ease.
I tried the bryston, but didnt like it. Also considered mcintosh, but couldnt get an in home audition with them so didnt bother.
After living now with the 2300 for a couple of months, i havent even considered a change in direction, as it continues to improve as the hours build up
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January 1, 2015, 04:08 PM #6
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
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January 1, 2015, 04:39 PM #7
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Thanks Steve..based on your comments re-costs I will be best off with Classe as dealers relationship is strong..but again Mcintosh just looks so good and also most expensive of the whole lot including a new mono block for future center or multichannel another amp. My heart is with mcintosh but everything else is favoring classe...as it will be cheaper overall.. if I still go ahead with mcintosh only 302 is in my range..is their a huge audible between 302 and 452...cheers
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January 1, 2015, 05:22 PM #8
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
i never did compare, i only compared a few stereo amps. I think for your 802's the 2300 would be more then enough, but again, if the budget stretches the monos should be slightly better one would assume.
Ore put that extra 2g towards the 5 channel model at a later date for your surround sound
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January 1, 2015, 11:26 PM #9
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Speakeasy
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January 2, 2015, 05:35 AM #10
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Cheers all of you guys…learning a lot and appreciate all your comments…thank you
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January 2, 2015, 05:36 AM #11
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
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January 2, 2015, 05:43 AM #12
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
……WOW you just gave me a brilliant idea, I really never thought about it and its definitely worth considering. It will save me a lot in further power amplification, space, money !!! cheers …Will now cross fingers and hopefully get dealer to give me a really good price…most importantly if I do move to a bigger place, I can always biamp the 802s..
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January 2, 2015, 08:45 AM #13
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
I had the classe 2300 with the 802di in a HT system. more as enough!
My center was Htm2d and 805d SR: powered CA3200.
the match Classe + B&W is good. in HT 5 channel or more) have 2 x cam300 dont make a big difference. for a 2 channel pure stereo I say the 2 monos but with a HT system the 2300 sound very very fine. in the future you can event. try a bi-amplification with 2x 2300.
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January 2, 2015, 09:27 AM #14
Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
After auditioning the 802 Diamonds with Classé (the obvious dealer choice) and MacIntosh (I forgot the type number) I considered the Classé the better choice.
However after hearing the third option I went this one: the Audionet AMP mono amplifier.
These amplifiers have a wide frequency range up to 200kHz and high speeds. Much like Solution, Goldmund but are affordable like the JOB amps.
I can tell you that the AMP's are driving the Diamonds like it takes no effort. Very tight bass and wide and deep stereo image. If you can find a dealer ask for a demo at your home situation.
Hans
Bowers & Wilkins 805 D3 /alternatively JM Lab Point Source Aria 5 (self modified)/ 2x SVS 3000 SB, Audionet AMP (2x), dCS Bartók used as streamer / DAC / preamp, Pro-Ject RPM 9 with Speedbox S and Orthofon MC Vivo Blue, KEF LS50 Nocturne / Sunfire Atmos(kitchen). Patio: Bluesound Node 2i and Focal CMS50.
RoonServer on Nucleus.
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January 3, 2015, 04:59 AM #15
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
[QUOTE=Glareskin;108267]After auditioning the 802 Diamonds with Classé (the obvious dealer choice) and MacIntosh (I forgot the type number) I considered the Classé the better choice.
However after hearing the third option I went this one: the Audionet AMP mono amplifier.
These amplifiers have a wide frequency range up to 200kHz and high speeds. Much like Solution, Goldmund but are affordable like the JOB amps.
I can tell you that the AMP's are driving the Diamonds like it takes no effort. Very tight bass and wide and deep stereo image. If you can find a dealer ask for a demo at your home situation.
Thank you for sharing, it does look like a well made amp unfortunately, I couldn't find anyone around here in New Zealand selling Audionet amps…
sJust out of curiosity which Classe Amp did you like more then Mcintosh…?? thank you..
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January 3, 2015, 05:31 AM #16
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
[QUOTE=Tripp;108441]Audionet have a damping factor higher vs. Mc & Classe and is good with Raidho speaker. Classe or Mc with B&W802di? personal taste. Classe for ME is much better as the Mc. Mcintosh is a ampli that I dont agree/like.
For me the point is if you will have a HT system or a high end stereo system.
1. you will a 5.1 or 7.1?
2. L&R 802di -> Classe 2300. -> cam300 is at the same level of the 2300 really improvement? 2x CAM600.
L&R 802di + center Htm2di SR 805di -> 5300 classe audio. preampli Anthem D2 or SSP800.
or
802di with the 2300 for a good stereo system + B&W new CM serie for center and SR -> preampli like a Pioneer,
Yamaha, Onkyo....-> if so one HT ampli/receiver give you satisfaction in stereo too ok good and use the ampli inside to drive the SR and the center.
I had the Raidho C3.1 with passlabs 250.5 and 350.5 -> not a good combo.
Audionet or other power ampli (Jeff Rowland?!) are too a good solution but I don t now is they are available in New Zeland...
at the end other point is how much $$$$$ and you have a dedicated room with a beamer or LedTV 65"or so like that?
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January 3, 2015, 08:28 AM #17
Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
I am not 100% sure because I continued with Audionet instead of Classé or McIntosch but it was mono's and they had the typical Classé roundings. I am pretty sure it was the CA 600 like in this setting:
Another suggestion: why don't you go for 4x Job 250 mono's? There are on the market since two months and only available online.
THE JOB 225
http://audioshark.org/amplifiers-8/j...l#.VKffN8b_s0o
Arguably one of the best amos you'll find! Goldmund technology of a reasonable price 1700 USD each. You could go full bi-amping with for Job mono's for 6800 USD!!
And they are strong enough. A friend of mine drove his difficult to drive Gauder's with a single Job 225 without problems. So with 2 mono's per channel you would easily drive the Diamonds.Hans
Bowers & Wilkins 805 D3 /alternatively JM Lab Point Source Aria 5 (self modified)/ 2x SVS 3000 SB, Audionet AMP (2x), dCS Bartók used as streamer / DAC / preamp, Pro-Ject RPM 9 with Speedbox S and Orthofon MC Vivo Blue, KEF LS50 Nocturne / Sunfire Atmos(kitchen). Patio: Bluesound Node 2i and Focal CMS50.
RoonServer on Nucleus.
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January 3, 2015, 05:17 PM #18
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
[QUOTE=db33;108442]That's exactly right...bit silly of me, but again I plan to get their eventually..7.1 will be my set up for future...I have pioneer lx75 180x180 @ 6 ohms in 9 channel..I will just use this amp to run 684 (100@8ohms) as front surround and Jamo 507 (150@4ohms)as back speakers...using pioneer for leftover amplification will be resort if I go stereo or use 5 channels amplification through classe 5300...tv and stuff is sorted but will get projector in next few years along with improving this plan. Current budget is just for power amplification ...
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January 3, 2015, 08:06 PM #19
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Jeff Rowland is available here locally but also as expensive as Mcintosh 452…for 400 watts in stereo…which is actually less powerful then Mcintosh 450 stereo. Furthermore I am still unsure how it will sound with 802 diamonds…Quiet impressive stats from Audio net…unfortunately they are just not available locally. Talking about availability, its shame you can't compare a lot of amps locally with 802 diamonds…either you get speakers, or you get amps.. further more, dealers are not open for at home audition...
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January 3, 2015, 09:48 PM #20
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
What about the NZ made Plinius?
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January 4, 2015, 03:54 AM #21
Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Hans
Bowers & Wilkins 805 D3 /alternatively JM Lab Point Source Aria 5 (self modified)/ 2x SVS 3000 SB, Audionet AMP (2x), dCS Bartók used as streamer / DAC / preamp, Pro-Ject RPM 9 with Speedbox S and Orthofon MC Vivo Blue, KEF LS50 Nocturne / Sunfire Atmos(kitchen). Patio: Bluesound Node 2i and Focal CMS50.
RoonServer on Nucleus.
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January 4, 2015, 06:39 AM #22
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Jobs are not available locally but thank u for coming back to me re-classe
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January 4, 2015, 06:47 AM #23
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Plinus is really expensive, but I will enquire about it tomorrow...will it go well with 802s... I am also auditioning Mac 452 tomorrow
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January 4, 2015, 07:54 AM #24
Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
The Jobs are available worldwide through internet sales only. NZ is even mentioned on the ordering page. Check the reactions on this forum. Everybody is enthusiastic about this great product>
HOW TO GET A JOB ?
Hans
Bowers & Wilkins 805 D3 /alternatively JM Lab Point Source Aria 5 (self modified)/ 2x SVS 3000 SB, Audionet AMP (2x), dCS Bartók used as streamer / DAC / preamp, Pro-Ject RPM 9 with Speedbox S and Orthofon MC Vivo Blue, KEF LS50 Nocturne / Sunfire Atmos(kitchen). Patio: Bluesound Node 2i and Focal CMS50.
RoonServer on Nucleus.
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January 4, 2015, 08:42 AM #25
Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
I had the 802 Diamonds running with the Classe 2300. Great combo and one of my favorite systems. It really came together when I added a Mac C2300 preamp. Perfect combo for me. I think the system needed to tube pre.
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January 5, 2015, 03:15 PM #26
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Hi Steve I went to audition mc452 and it sounded so nice and warm yet very detailed with c4s...& they are just so beautiful amps with power and authority...really liked them but price was just overally expensive n dealer won't negotiate much since it American made....50% more then classe or krell amps..so a bit to think and plan budget... Cheers for your mesg.
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January 5, 2015, 07:32 PM #27
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Tripp... Hope you can get over the price hurdle. The strengthening USD is going to make it more difficult for overseas buyers to acquire too. The thing about McIntosh is that the price is always going up. That's a good thing for ownership comfort but not so for those wishing to buy. Your justification will come knowing that you made the right choice in the end as you listen and watch those blue meters dance in the night.
The MC452 is an amp that I would love to own should my system grow in the future.
Speakeasy
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January 8, 2015, 05:34 AM #28
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Cheers all of you's - I will comment once I have made my purchase...
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February 13, 2015, 06:04 AM #29
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Hi guys by all means I respect your inputs n thoughts for classe 2300 n other. Peoducts recommended ..however I just fall in luv with mcintosh 452...looks more then sound....: ) but again sound was also very exciting ....a bit forward to my likings ...always fancied mc's so took the step ... Once again thanku all... It wasn't easy n Classe 2300 was my next best bet but I had no where to hear classe 2300..thanku
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February 13, 2015, 10:11 AM #30
Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Congrats on your 452, it's a great piece !
Mark
Kharma DB9 Signature
Pass Labs XP32......incoming
Pass Labs X350.8
Esoteric N-05XD
VPI Avenger with Magnetic Drive
Manley Chinook Phono Pre
Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge
Kharma Elegance speaker cables
Kharma Elegance interconnects
REL Subs
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February 13, 2015, 10:23 AM #31
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Re: mono blocks classe CA-M300 VS stereo classe 2300 for bowers 802 diamond
Congrats... Pride and joy for many years to come.
Speakeasy
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Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.
Sincerely,
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AudioShark forum is a leading forum site for High End Audio Discussion, Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater System Discussion, Best Home Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater Installation Discussion etc.
The AudioShark forum was created for sharing the passion of high-end Audio. We have Audiophiles from all over the world participating and sharing their knowledge. From novice to experts, you will find a friendly environment for discussing about High End Audio, Stereo System, Home Theater System, Home Stereo System, Home Theater Installation, Amplifiers, Speakers, Subwoofers, Integrated System, Acoustic treatments & Digital Room Corrections and many more.
At AudioShark, we also have incorporated an exciting Marketplace where members can peruse terrific buys on used gear, as well as meet dealers and discuss the purchase of new gear.
We are as crazy about this hobby as you are! So come on in and join us! Audioshark.org the Friendliest Audio Forum!
Industry Participation Disclosure : The owner and administrator of Audioshark is the owner of Suncoast Audio LLC in Sarasota Florida. Suncoast Audio has a full brick and mortar presence in Sarasota with several great show rooms with many world class brands. More information can be found at http://www.suncoastaudio.com
Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.
Sincerely,
The Audioshark.org Team
I upgraded the power supply on my Gigafoil v4 to a Weiss PSU 102. It’s very nice step up. But with the new model, you’re looking at $2000 before even investing in a SOTA linear power supply.
GigaFoil v4 Inline Ethernet Filter