B&W 803D with Classé Audio CAV500 Power Amplifier?

[nick.h]

Hi,

Is it worth looknig at a second hand Classé Audio CAV500 Power Amplifier? to run my 803D's?

[RobP]

Nick, That is a wonderful multi-channel amplifier, and would be great powering your 803D's. I run a CAV180 on my N803's and the sound is very detailed, has great speed and pace and produces a huge deep soundstage. The CAV500 out performs my CAV180, so in my opinion you cant go wrong, it is a beast of an amplifier though, make sure that you have a place that it will fit and will hold the weight.

[nick.h]

thanks dude.

Its a tuff one, have 5 channels or go for something newer and only get 2 channels.

Then when I get my HTM2D I'll have to buy another amp! its never ending!

[norpus]

For the $8K this is going for here 2nd hand in Oz, you have a number of choices for 2ch and 7ch

Elektra Reference 2ch $4K rrp new
Elektra 7 7ch $4K rrp new
or both for ~$7K

I use the Elektra 7 biamped into my 802d - plenty of grunt (4 x 185w)


Or off the wall, how about something local in monoblocs?
I can vouch personally for SGR501 monoblocs (in a nice box sgr could custom make) - in a short A/B with Elektra Reference, the monoblocs sounded great.
Dunno the price, but call Stuart 0438 442 990. These things have been reportedly proven in Melb to drive Duntech sovereigns, MBL 'lanterns' where other big name exxy yank brands fell by the wayside on the difficult loads.

Cheers
Norpus

Nick, congrats, when did you pick up the 803d? An update piccy of the avatar would be nice

[nick.h]

Hi,

Yeah, I decided to go with the HTM2D centre instead of the amplifier for the moment.

I will have a listen to a couple at a "in home" demo.

I pick them up tomorrow in Sydney, driving up from Canberra.