b&k or Bryston or McCormack?


Greetings. I am purchasing the new Martin Logan Ascent (replaces the SL3)loudspeakers.My quandry regards amplification. My budget is limited following the speaker purchase but I need amps. The B&K Reference 4420 is on closeout at my local retailer for $800 (225 watts @8 ohms x2). I was originally considering buying either the Bryston 4b-st, of the McCormack 225. However for less than the price of one of those amps, I can buy two B&Ks and bi-amp. My room is 27 ftx 18 ft, speakers are for music primarily, but will see some HT action. My musical tastes are varied but primarily alt/classic rock. I don't really have the luxury of an in-home audition, so I thought I would turn to the web for some wisdom. Thank you all in advance for your thoughts and consideration, I really appreciate your input.
mspencerod2cd0

Showing 2 responses by kevperro

I've owned the B&K 4420. It was very nice but I bought a pair of Hales Rev 3s that are a difficult load. Mr. Hales (speaker designer) suggested the Aragon 4004 or 8008 for their effortless ability to drive difficult loads. I havn't listened to the Bryston but many people compare the sound of the Bryston with the Aragon. If I didn't have the Hales I would have been very happy with the B&K and saved some cash. Don't let what is currently popular change you decision. The B&K will do the trick unless you have very difficult to drive speakers.
Mspencerod: Sorry, I should have looked at your speakers more carefully. I just checked the Martin Logan web site and your speakers might be a difficult load. (4 ohms, 1.2 ohms at 20kHz) You might want to look for a amp that doubles down (ie. doubles wattage when halfing the load). Ignore the power ratings, especially at 8 ohms. The B&K is rated 225 watt/8 ohm but only 350 at 4 ohms. To double down it would need to go from 225 to 450. You might want to call Martin Logan and see if they can suggest some amplifiers (after all they designed the speaker).