Opinions Wanted: CM9 and RB-1092 or RB-1080

[miket]

Hi All,
anybody out there driving a pair of B&W CM9s with either a rotel RB-1092 or a RB-1080 care to leave a few comments on what they think of their system? I've a chance to buy the speakers new at normal shop price with a big discount on either amp used. I've an RCD-1072 feeding an RC-1082.

Thanks.....Miket

[miner]

Not a true comparison but this may help. I have a pair of N804 and a ASW800 sub. My first amp/pre with this was a RB-1070/RC-1070. I upgrade to a RC-1090/RB-1092 and was very please with the outcome - this was when the RB-1092 was first released. Many owners praise the RB-1080 but have expereinced fuse issues. I had never had a problem with either of my setups - blew a fuse once in the RB-1070 when loose strands of speaker wires were touching. I was so pleased with the RB-1092 that when I designed an analogue only setup (LPs, turntable) I purchased another RB-1092 and used a RC-1082 with it. Stayed with this until I upgraded to a full McIntosh setup. Keep in mind both of the amps you are considering are discontinued so you should be getting a huge discount on them (if NIB at least 50%). Be sure you are getting the full manufacturers warranty if demo or New In Box.

[hurin]

Both have more than enough power to drive your speakers, as for which one is better, D vs A/B, I think is a matter of taste.
I have the 1080 and the part about it having fuse issues is true. But once I stopped using the 12v trigger there have been no problems.

Personally I would go for the 1092.