Mono Blocks / why are they not more prevalent? + Wyrded4Sound SX1000R


I am just learning about mono-blocks, and if they provide the benefits claimed why are they not used by more  audiophiles? I  am looking for a used Wyred4Dound Sx1000R- any  thoughts? 

mendef

I’ve actually gone back and forth on this a little. I’ve owned pairs of stereo amps convertible to mono. Also I’ve owned some "pure" monoblocks. First of all, creating a mono side out of a stereo amp by "bridging" (as switchable SS amps often do it) is generally deleterious to sound quality, and runs the amps much harder / hotter (that’s why SS amps yield up to 4x as much power per side when bridged). But even on the amps that don’t achieve mono by bridging (e.g. tube amps parallelizing on OPT’s) - certainly the mono configuration sounds more "perfect": better dynamics, slam, clarity. Overall just more pristine. But when you don’t need the extra power, sometimes I wonder whether the Stereo configuration is somehow more musically coherent for a good music session, and if I might actually prefer that.

It’s hard to beat a really good, musical, and "powerful enough" stereo amp - and I appreciate the simpler configuration. 

Of course, with  my (poor) hearing, I might not even hear the difference, But, this is one vote for my Totem / Forest speakers. 

Why do you need a separate outlet? 

Can not use a power strip?

Certainly you can use a power strip, but the point is that two monoblocks have two different power cords, so require two outlet receptacles, whereas a stereo amp only needs one.  A seemingly minor reason not to pursue monoblocks.

My experience going from a single stereo amp too monoblocks derived from the exact same circuit resulted in better separation, improved soundstage, and even somewhat better dynamics and improved clarity. .

The debate started in my life around 1970.  Mono, stereo, integrated.  I worked in retail and of course this discussion went around and around.  Davey O'brien of McIntosh told me that there was no performance difference, but felt that as long as there was a market, manufacturers would cater to it.  Saul Marantz made at least one early solid state stereo amp that was actually two mono blocks joined by a face plate (Model 15?).  They could be separated and operated separately.  Having each amp right next to the speaker it is driving is compelling, at least esthetically.  Then there are some integrated amps that make a strong case for putting everything in one chassis.  I think especially with the newest Class D amps the integrated approach is quite strong.  On the other hand, if you want separates, it is your money, who said this hobby is totally rational?