The question "The Acoustat Delema"


I have just finished a complete retrofit of a set of Acoustat model 2+2 (yea, the eight footers !) What would be the ideal amp/amps to run these wonderful, beautiful, most ineffieceient, low impedence, power hungry ....I think you get the point? With the remodel they are quiet attractive ! but them so are some of the prices on the amplifiers that ARE STABLE ENOUGH TO RUN THEM!
chefbeau9060
As an owner of Acoustat 2+2s for over twenty years, I still find myself asking that question. But I pretty much go with solid state because I no longer have the patience with tube amps that I did in my youth. If you can find a lightly used Spectral DMA200 from the late 80s then this amp will be your last solid state amp for these speakers; along with the DMC 10 preamp this combo will give you a ruthlessly revealing experence that is remarkable. It will not be a soft fuzzy sound but something that is edgy but not too edgy or ingrating; a good solid enhancement of macro- as well as microdynamics over a tube amp. Plus much better bass drive. Definitely not a warm sound but definitely not a hard sound. Of course the Acoustats are very revealing of the source whether CD or analog. Good luck!!
Dear Chris,
I havent been on this site in almost two months so I apologise for not returning a message and thanking you for your reply. Is that amp you said you knew of still for sale? I purchased an adcom 555 to do the job until I find something a little more stable for the low impedences these big boys throw at an amplifier.
Regards Bo Kirby
Dilemma

Inefficient

Quite

Sorry to be a PITA, but this stuff is inexcusable. I guess it's the former English major in me....

-R.
Hello Chef. I have to agree with Essentialaudio's recommendation in a big way. The acoustat OTL servo amps are about as good as it gets here sir, although they do need to be updated to really shine. When refurbished... I honestly do not think that any other amp [regardless of cost] can compare. My servos {mated to 2+2's} have beat out some very highly regarded amplifiers over the years[both tube and solid state]. I really had to smile {more like a smerk} at the mention of the little 25 watt Bedini driving the Acoustat 2+2"s. As odd as it may look on paper.... it really is the gospel. No... you can't rock out, but it will surely have you shaking your head in disbelief as it makes for one very engaging musical experience. All the best in your search sir and have a Great Christmas.