Are RB-991/993 Really Shy on Bass ???

[FernandoF]

Hello, folks.

I have an RSX-1056/RB-980BX combo which I am quite happy with. I'm running Dynaudio 52SE/42C for the fronts, and I understand they are rather power-hungry speakers.

I've got a good offer for my 980BX and therefore I am considering upgrading to one of the 200W/ch amplifiers. My primary options would be the RB-991 or 993, but I've been reading these posts stating that they may be a bit shy for bass, even when compared to the RB-990BX.

Unfortunately I'll have to purchase the new amp without being able to audition it, so I'd like to ask those of you who may be familiar with the models :

1) Are the RB-991/993 really shy on bass ?
2) Should I expect the 990BX/980BX/1070 to be better in that regard ?
3) How would you rank the 5 models mentioned above, from best to "worst" ?

My primary objective is 2ch, the 3rd channel (of the RB-993) would be a plus for the 42C, IF the loss in Stereo was irrelevant. Also, for several reasons I cannot include the RB-1080 in my list of options.

Thanks a lot in advance !

[spinners]

Hello,

I have the 1056/1070 combo, no experience with the other amps you've listed. My opinion: The RB 1070 is a very clean amp, detailed and quiet when it needs to be. About bass: I don't feel it's shy, but it's not a houseshaker either. I will rate it as 'honest'. Then again, that's the way I like it. I have 2 REL quakes connected directly to my mains (wich is a nice option REL subs have), so if I want more bass I simply turn up the volume of the REL's. (with sub off in menu, 2 channel mode) Remeber: more watt's don't mean more bass!

[FernandoF]

Thanks a lot for your comments, spinners.

In fact I don't want MORE bass, but I'm wondering whether I would get BETTER bass with a more powerful amp. I guess better would mean tighter, more controlled, more clearly audible at lower volumes.

I'm really happy with my RB-980BX, it's just that it might be a good opportunity to upgrade, but I really don't know what I could expect in terms of sound quality improvement.

I would EXPECT the mentioned models, from best to "worst", to be ranked like this :

RB-991
RB-990BX
RB-993
RB-1070
RB-980BX

Anybody agrees or disagrees ? Any additional comments ?

[Jonesy]

I've had my 991 for a few years now and have absolutely no complaints about the low end production, however my B&W 604's are probably a little less power hungry than your Dyn's. The 991 seems to exhibit very nice control over the drivers at any point on the volume dial. I haven't listened to any of the other models listed.

[FernandoF]

Thanks for your input, Jonesy !

[chachi]

I've got a 993 for the centre/rears and a pair of 1070s for the fronts and no noticeable issues ...