2. amps-preamps
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Boulder monoblocks

I am very interested in the Boulder monoblocks which look very impressive and have very impressive specifications. However, there are only a few serious reviews published on these amps and for $55,000 there are many options. Essentially, for me the most important quality of an amplifier is its bass performance, I like bass that is ultra fast, tight, controlled, and with lots of slam. Another amplifier I am considering are the giant Mark Levinson No. 33 Reference monoblocks. I heard them at a local showroom and thoght that it sounded amazing. I am wondering how it compares to the Boulder monoblocks. Anyone who has had experience with the Boulder monoblocks I would appreciate your comments. Thanks.
audioari1
branimir
236 posts
 
Rhohense, Boulder 850 will be around $10K USA retail. I saw the pictures of them and they look cheaper than 1000(or 2000) series gear-they have silver faceplate but, casework is black and they are half width of 1050. 810 preamp will be 850s natural partner for another $7.5K and both of them will be introduced to the market at CES 2006.
worldcat
160 posts
 
Theta Citadels are much cheaper and better than both of those amps!
branimir
236 posts
 
Worldcat, this is only your personal opinion... I would allways choose Boulder,Krell or Lamm over Theta amps.
I tried Theta Enterprise/GenVIII/Compli combo with Sonus Faber Amati Anniversario's and sound was...well, not very good. Finally I bought all ARC system(REF210/REF3/REF CD7) and IMO it is much better then Theta combo that I tried.
Many guys here on Agon who owns Wilson speakers(as you do) and Lamm amps said that if they ever go back to SS, it will be Boulder!
worldcat
160 posts
 
There is a big difference in Citadel and Enterprise! The Gen VIII smokes. I have AERIAL 20T's.
islandear
208 posts
 
The 850's debuted at RMAF. These blocks were - literally - brand new, not broken in. They were mated to the new Accuphase DP57 and were driving a new model of the mid-line JM Focals. Very, very good sound. I also listened to the 2060 which was driving JM Focals as well. Certainly, at $10k retail the 'entry-level' Boulders are worth a listen, which I intend to do as soon as I can borrow a pair for audition.
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