I had tried many solid amps with B&W (802,802 and 800) , like Krell, MC, MarkLevinson, PassLab, GoldMund, Gryphon...So, Goldmund and Gryphon (and FM Acoustic) are very expensive, which I don't want to count on here. I think McIntosh-B&W combo makes better sound than Krell-B&W. Once I compare Krell FPB 600 and MC 1000 on B&W 801 and found MC 1000 gave sweeter sound (especially in mid-band) while FPB 600 make the LF like from a strong canon. The same thing when I used both KSA 200S and MC 2600 with B&W. But when I tried with Dynaudio, Krell made better job (actually Mark Levinson is the best with ML 20.6).
But overall, your setup is really good. Idon't know much about your other equipment like cable, room size... for saying McIntosh can make better sound or not.

bachnguyen May 30, 2005 00:13

Hi Minh,
How the NorthCreek crossovers come along with your 801/3? Did you try Krell Crossover specially designed for B&W 800 series? They are good combos. I had these combos but sold them all because upgrading.

oanhu April 04, 2003 00:16

Hi,
I'm just a novice in the hifi world. I just started about six months ago and now I can't live without listening to musics. I have used classe cam 200, krell 300s and now in love with the kas. If you see a better way for me to setup, please let me know.I'm always looking for advices and knowledge from experience audiophiles who love music just like me for way to improve my sound.

Thanks for reading,
Minh Nguyenb

minhnguyen July 04, 2002 10:39

That's a real interesting cost ratio of pre-amp/amp gear to speakers (7:1). I can't recall seeing that kind of ratio before. You must love those B&W's! Just goes to show that there are a lot of approaches to great sound. Enjoy!

ozfly June 19, 2002 23:28