Amp For 802D

[PHC1]

Originally Posted by williamhds

I blew a tweeter and one woofer using my 501s. Hit the clip meter on several occasions. 802ds playing loud will require more power. 601s or better.

The 501s are not supposed to clip!

[bart]

I've even heard the 802D's driven by my amp (140 watts only).
No problem whatsoever.
I'm not a listener at levels that provide music for the whole street though...

[Omerta]

Originally Posted by bart

I've even heard the 802D's driven by my amp (140 watts only).
No problem whatsoever.
I'm not a listener at levels that provide music for the whole street though...

I am not saying that they can not be driven by a quality low powered amp but you will not be getting your moneys worth out of the 802D that way in my experience.... the original 802D has a midbass hump that will draw attention to itself if turned up and there is not significant power to keep a firm grasp on the the woofers.

[Matt Lan]

This topic is very relevant to me as I am looking for speakers to complement a new pair of MC501's.

I have auditioned the 800's, 801's and 802's (various iterations) over the years, but it is very difficult to derive a direct A/B comparison due to the various demo rooms and associated equipment.

All things equal, I am tempted by the 800 Diamond Series, but worried my 501's will not be up to the task. From the posts above, that would appear to be a real concern.

Assuming I want to keep the 501's, what's the consensus:

- better to match with 802's; or

- go for the 800's, they'll work great?

Thanks in advance for advice and your experiences!

Best,

Matt

[Rod#S]

I have 802 Diamonds powered by a Bryston 4B-SST C Series which puts out 330 watts into 8 ohms and I definitely don't feel I'm lacking anything by not driving them with an amp rated at or above their 500 watt spec so I don't see any reason to be concerned with going for the 800 Diamonds (rated at 1000 watts) seeing as you have 500 watt amps.

Kal Rubinson is driving 3 800 Diamonds with a McIntosh MC303 and I have never heard him speak of any misgivings of not having more power.

Rod

[Matt Lan]

Thanks Rod, good point.

It's sometimes hard to tell from all the varied opinions out there - some are not happy until every last ounce of authority is extrated from a speaker, others righfully enjoy what they have have with more modest current.

Thanks again.

Any other opinions about driving the 800's with MC501's?

Best,

Matt

[KahunaCanuck]

I run my 800Ds (non new Diamond) with MC501s...they work very well. Of course more current will always get more out of them, but I don't feel like I am lacking...

[Matt Lan]

Thanks - I've read your posts, you seem very pleased with the 800's.



I continue to look for a good used pair (as close to Montreal as possible). I don't want to ship something that size!

Best,

Matt