B&W 804 with ???


In the midst of upgrading system. 804's are new as is Rega Planet; these are currently driven by an old Hafler and Acurus L10. I listen mostly to Rock, Jazz and have some interst in decreasing the brightness of the 804's a bit. Integrated, separates, just the amp, just the preamp ?? would like to keep cost < $2k. Thanks !
jc1
Are your 804 matrix or N series speakers? B&Ws are not bright speakers. The Halfer amp can be reasonably moded by Musical Concepts and they would sound great. I would say experiment first with the Halfer mod. B&Ws generally come alive with high current SS amps especially if yo uare going to really rock out. Borrow a different preamp to see what that does to your system. Other amps that work well with B&Ws, Bryston 4s, Krell KAV-250 come to mind for loud rock. What cables are you using?

Happy Listening.
The Aronov Audio LS960i is a no fuss tube integrated which can really give you natural and musical sound, including the bass that transistor fans swear is theirs alone.
Available used in the $1600 range, when it comes up on Audiogon. I mated it with top of the line Mapleshade power cord directly into the AC wall outlet, and for jazz, and rock, the drum kit provides explosive dynamics with great transient speed. Doesn't disappoint when it's just a fragile singer-songwriter with her solo guitar, either.
Thanks very much for eveyone's response. these are the Nautilus 804's, and, I just ordered some Audioquest type 4 cables (bi-wire). I will have to think about interconnects next. From the responses, power seems to be a common answer. Any thoughts on integrates...Musical Fideliyt, Simaudio ?? Thanks again everyone !
What about Classe? They seem to mate very well with B&W. Something about synergy with sister companies that you can't get elsewhere. Just something to think about. I think the CAP 151 would have enough power for your 804's.