The truth on low efficiency speakers like B&W?


I've been learning a lot lately, but I'm still questioning the true amp requirements for speakers such as B&W 802s. I've seen mentions of using 45 watt tube amps all the way up to 600 watt mono blocks. Seriously, what is too little and is a 600 watt amp over kill? Can the speakers ever be pushed hard enough to overcome an amp like the Parasound 2250 with 250 watts/ch @ 8ohms and 400 @ 4 ohms? Is heavy bass music require the upper ends of power? Thanks. Owners please chime in with issues you have had with low power amps.
rave426

Showing 1 response by rhljazz

N802's are not inefficient. They are specified at 90db 1W and 1 meter. They are however, very sensitive to the amplifier driving them and cabling. It is all too easy to end up with a lean, bright sound.

The W4S ST500 is an excellent partner along with a decent tube preamp. A VAC Phi 110 produced excellent bass also. The tube amps will produce a fuller sounding bass with less impact. The VAC pa100 sounds real entertaining with jazz.

The N802's are not the last word in bass definition or tunefulness but one can certainly achieve a good spectral balance and plenty of bass with the right setup.