Monoblock vs. Bi-Amp

[LarryK]

At the risk of being shot for even using the word "Bi-Amp" I have a question (or two). We are working off a clean sheet of paper so all options are open. I have LSi15's, LSiC, PSW10 Sub & LSi7's (which I am going to replace with LSiF/X. I have an underpowered receiver so now it's seperates time.

I am thinking of the monoblock route for fronts and 3, 5 or 7 channel amp for the rest. Would there be any advantage to Bi-Amping this as well (would also get an active crossover)? From what I've read here, it's pointless to Bi-Wire. Is the internal crossover knocked out automatically when the external x-over is used or do you need to do some surgery to the speaker? Is it worth it? Finally, what is the difference between Bi-Wire and Bi-Amp speaker cable?

Thinking of new Emo's (I know, enough of that too) vs. used Mac. Your thoughts are much appreciated... be kind as I am somewhat new:confused:

[george daniel]

I'm just a 2 channel guy,, I am currently deciding/evaluating stereo vs monobloc tube amps on my SDA's. Not sure which,, just yet. Best way to find out is to try it yourself. Good luck.:)

[janmike]

Welcome. In my HT (LSi9, LSiFX, LsiC I run a 5CH Amp (Proceed AMP5). The sub (SVS) has it's own power. Personally I would look for a strong multi-channel amp, but that's me.
Can't answer all, but the bi-wire has 4 leads (Speakers) at one end and 2 leads (amp) at the other end. The Bi-amp cables have 4 leads at both ends.
Good luck.

[Mike21]

Hi Larry.

Unless your receiver has preamp outputs you cannot add external amplification w/o getting a new receiver or surround processor.

What is the make and model of your reciver?

[MLZ]

At the risk of being shot for even using the word "Bi-Amp"

You will not get shot for using the word "Bi-amp" in any post.

However, if you used the word "Bi-wire", well, that is something totally different :eek:

[Face]

No need to bi-amp the fronts if you're going with separate amplification. You can't go wrong with monos for the mains and a mulitchannel for the rest if you have the room.

As for Mac vs. Emo, you shouldn't have to ask. As long as you go with a Mac made in the 80's or later, you should be fine. The newer the better.

[Hawkeye]

As for Mac vs. Emo, you shouldn't have to ask. As long as you go with a Mac made in the 80's or later, you should be fine. The newer the better.

Mike I couldn't have said it better.

Gordon

[ShinAce]

You will not get shot for using the word "Bi-amp" in any post.

However, if you used the word "Bi-wire", well, that is something totally different :eek:

*Lines up MLZ and LarryK in a single line through the scope* ... *release safety* ... *waits for the FIRE command*



















Bi-amp for life. Just don't go bi-amping random speakers. It's not something you just try as a tweak. You'll need good knowledge of the speaker drivers or good testing equipment and experience.

Also be careful mixing and matching amps on your speakers. Sure, it will work just fine, but it's better to have the exact same build of amp on all speakers, so that's volume is guaranteed to scale properly. A good 5 channel amp is always a hit. You could consider a 7 channel and bi-amp the mains.

I'm guessing you're 5.1