I'm very certain the Benchmark AHB2 is the most resolving amp available... but you'll need to bridge mono them to get the same power you're getting from your Pass Labs.
Recommendation for a highly resolving amp
I have Don Sachs 2 tube preamp driving Pass Labs X350.5 driving Sound Lab M545 ESL speakers. I like the sound very much, but when I went to hear my friend’s Spectral system (driving Quad2912 ESL) I realized my system can benefit from having a higher resolution amp. Spectral amps need all Spectral preamp/cabling, which would be quite expensive. What would you recommend?
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Here is Dr. Mertens evaluation of the 4B3 from 2018. He is still using this pairing (which I copied) of the EAR and the 4B3 three years later in his reference system. Mainly for the resolution as a professional evaluator. I happen to agree with all his comments and using Magnepan, I can attest that fatigue is not an issue. I listen for 5 hours every night. To be fair, at the price point, the AHB2 is a fine choice. Not everyone wants to or can spend the kind of money the cubed series requires. However, if one is searching for transparency and resolution, then the Cubed amplifiers are top shelf. I’m not a fan boy, so have no interest in what the OP decides. Be happy. I know for a fact that I am....very. https://www.fairaudio.de/test/bryston-bp17-und-bryston-4b-vor-endverstaerker-kombination/ |
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I am using the CODA #8 and CODA 07x preamp with my Thiel CS3.7. It is an very satisfying sound. IT has good detail, lots of power for my speakers, and non-fatiguing. I did hear some increased clarity and resolution when I recently heard the CODA 07x and CODA #16 amp. The plan is to trade in the #8 for the #16. But it is not a pressing concern and I will take my time to do so. The #8 is a very good amp and the #16 is a great amp. I think the #8 was not as clear and detailed as the Benchmark AHB2. However, I do not feel many amps are of that caliber. When I heard the #16 I was thinking the #16 was like the AHB2 in clarity but way more powerful with a bit more warmth that the AHB2. If I did not own the AHB2 I would have thought the #8 had a lot of detail. I also love my CODA #8 paired with my Benchmark LA4 preamp. The amps and preamps from these 2 companies (in any combination) really appeal to me. BTW - I am currently listening to my Thiel CS3.7 in my small room with the AHB2 + Topping pre90 ($599 preamp). I think it sounds real good when I am not playing too loud (most of the time). However, that bottom end is really not there with the AHB2 and Thiel CS3.7. My CODA 07x is in for repairs so I am using this combo until the 07x gets back. The Topping pre90 does not work with the CODA #8. |
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