thoughts on MBL amps: 8011 vs 9007's


I have a pair of MBL 111e's being powered by the smaller 8011 monoblock amps; all I could afford at that time. I like my MBL's; but was wondering if my amps are enough to bring out all the music from the 111es. I know people are polorized on the MBL brand; but I'd like some opinions on whether there would be enough improvement in musicality and base response; and flow of the music by moving up in the amplifer line to justify the huge increase in price. Or would a different brand of a high current, solid state amp do the trick for me for less money. I also know some folks here are running MBL 101e's with Lamm tube amps; but I'm not sure i'm ready to switch from ss to tubes; and the hastle factor..thoughts on reasonable upgrade path would be appreciated...economy is making the upgrade bug more of a luxury; but the bug is tickling..thanks for helpful replys.
Setup: MBL 111'es main; Meridian 861 processor; aerial cc5 center; Parasound A-51 multi amp, velodyne dd15 sub; Meridian G-98 source; and Qsonix music server; with MIT Maxum M=2 cables. Large; open room; high cathedral ceilings; wood floors;
mribob
Hi Mribob, another 20 amp outlet never hurts, but if you add one see if it can be installed as a dedicated with its own external ground. I have (3) dedicated 20 amp outlets. But I have never blown a fuse.

When we are enjoying all the glory of a Blu-Ray and True DD-HD sound we run the pair of MC1.2KW and a pair JL Audio F-113 subs into 2 of the dedicated circuits with no loss of power, clipping or fuses being blown.

For two channel I send each MC1.2KW to its own outlets and my C220 and SACD player to the other. Your 8011 extreme high peak pulse power up to 1.100 W (MONO) were as the 9007 draws 1.900- much higher.

I would agree Richlane above about both statements, 1st being preamp, you should check out the MBL 5011 it also has HT pass through and would be a major improvement over all check out this review:
http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue25/mbl_5011.htm

there is a demoed one on A-gon for 5K. The 2nd review is from the same guy on your amps the 8011, he raves about how great it is but for the ultimate performance he recommends the 9007. Those are here on A-gon for 17K

http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue30/mbl8011.htm

I think before you even rush out and buy new amps you'd be surprised at what room treatments can do for your whole system, room and ears. They where a must for me once I started with them, I played around for months reading about room treatments, sound roofing, live rooms etc.
One you get the room dialed in then move on to your next quest- unless you feel that your ears are pleased with the acoustics.
Good luck,

I also think you would get more bang for your buck to put your money into an Analog Preamp such as the Noble MBL 5011 mentioned above, or even the Reference MBL 6010D, depending on your budget of course, before buying different Amps. Either one would match really well with your MBL 8011 Amps. Both of these preamps have a pass through for your Meridian Processor.

Rich
I know this thread is a few years old, but there is precious little info on this subject, & I am soon to be in the same boat. MRIBOB are you still running the 8011's?
No, switched to pair bryston 28sst's, never looked back. Great amps, got the mbl's to sing much better, less $$$$$. I recently switched my rig though, dropped all the Meridian gear and Mbl's, switched to Venture speakers, VAC pre, Ayon cd5s, but kept the Bryston's. Good luck, the Mbl speakers are still special, always enjoyed them.
first, glad you found the sonic taste to your liking with Venture line, but I'm sadden that you drop the ball on MBL 111e. I don't think you have set it to it potentual. To me, there is no cone driver can do what MBL can. The musics just flows effortless and the sound, sound alive & real. Isn't that we all looking for in a system?

Secondly, I do agreed with others recommendation, upgrade pre, amps, cablings and MOST IMPORTANT, room treatment. Your room is 50% important and the other 50% is your system. The treatment define your bass and help the mid & high more clearer. It make the whole presentation more detail and transparent. Its like getting your window wash & clean. I didn't believe it at first, but it make a believer of me. Another thing, I would stick to one company with my gears and that will take the system match out of the equation.

Now, I'm no Bill Gate son (Btw, he has not just one but two MBL 101 Extreme Reference systems, LUCK DOG! correct me if I'm wrong) I have my share of saving & more saving & lusting for MBL gears & more, more, more saving for a loooooong time to get where I'm today with all MBL gears, thanks to Audiogon. I know they are expensive but I don't regret it at all. To me, the MBL is the EXOTIC line of audio gears and as Lamborgini in Automobile. Anyway, I just want to share my thoughts & opinions with you. LIVE HAPPY & GOOD LISTENING!