[Andy Lammer]

In a previous post on bi-amp & bi-wiring, there was discussion on using an external crossover in between pre-amp and power amps. As I may have some extra amp channels available, and I would like to give this a try.


My new NHT SubTwo came with very versatile outboard controller/cross-over. With the nature of them however, I would really need 2 to do it properly, but I can borrow a second one from my dealer. I know nothing of the quality of external cross-overs, but I do know of the Bryston 10B. Is the Bryston a good unit ? I see these go for about $600 used.


Now, does one need really high-end gear to actually notice anything ?

I have an EAD Ovation, Sunfire CG, Micromega Premium DVD2, NHT VT-2's, and Harmonic Tech interconnects. This is a great setup for me and my "budget", but I know it is mediocrity compared to the elite systems of some other members.


On an aside, I came to AVSFORUM purely for my projector & HT interests, but I am now drawn more & more to the Audio & Tweaks forum. The experts & knowledge in here is incredible ! Thanks to all !


- Andy

 

[Andy Lammer]

I believe I have answered my own questions:


I just came across this link while looking further into the Bryston 10B. This is the best explanation yet in bi-amp, bi-wire, and external cross-over implementations.
http://www.audioasylum.com/audio/gen...ges/57210.html


Here are some excerpts:


" Caution! When contemplating passive biamping, one should always consider whether a single higher quality amp would result in better sound than two amps. Note also that not all amp combinations will work together to provide coherent sound. Experimentation is necessary to avoid costly mistakes. "


and


" Misconceptions


(i) Speakers which allow for biwiring give better sound if two amplifiers are used - not necessarily so, it depends on many factors such as cabling, passive component quality etc.


(ii) I have a spare amp so am thinking of bi-amping - this may reflect a misunderstanding of the processes involved. i.e. if the amps are a poor match, the net result could be negative.


(iii) Bi-amping is a simple way of improving sound.

Quite the opposite. For the most satisfying sound, biamplification may require -


* a high-quality active crossover to achieve any significant improvement


* twice as many expensive interconnects and speaker cables


* two expensive and compatible amplifiers


* excellent drivers & a good cabinet to achieve best results - biamplification, by itself, does not guarantee that every speaker system will give dramatically improved bass


* if biamplifying to achieve a better bottom end with a sub, that sub needs careful matching the with the rest of the system - not always easy. "



I think with my setup, I should probably just go out and improve the amps for my mains -> Bryston 7BST or maybe even an EAD PM2000.


- Andy