804S Amplification: Biamp with 4 Arcam P1s or Classe 2200

[dami0n]

Hi,
I have an Arcam C30, 2 P1s and B&W 804S speakers. I want to get the most out of these speakers so am going to upgrade my power amplification.

My options are to either:
1. Get another pair of P1s and biamp the 804s with 4 P1s
2. Get the Classe 2200 power amp.


Which do you think will be a greater improvement?

How noticeable will it be?

Many thanks,
Hugh

[miner]

Biamping will require external Xovers, to be done right. Maybe you should look at 2 Rotel RB-1091 monoblocks (500 w/ch) - one for each speaker and biwire. I just picked up the 2 ch version - RB-1092 - I am totally ammazed at the quality. Two RB-1091 retail for $3000. I almost went this route but shelf space was an issue.

I was looking closely at the Calsse' 2200 amp but I could not get my dealer to budge on the price. I picked up my RB-1092 for $2250 (10% off retail).

[stewfoo]

804s are internally (passively) crossed over. No need to actively do it. The Classe 2200 on an 804 is like putting a 400w monoblock on an 803d. You will get every bit available out of the 804 that you can with the 2200. I have a 3200 pushing my front stage of 803s and Htm3s. The combo is perfect.
Its not really fair to compare Arcam and Rotel with Classe. Two completely different leagues.

[johan]

One good amp is always better than two less good amp's.

Good luck!