• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

Curious about monoblocks

I'd like to upgrade things in my system, no doubt, but I also like to tinker and learn. So usually I buy something on the cheap that needs some attention but could be decent and (try) to repair it. Helps me to understand things when I can get hands on. Also gives me an emotional connection to the gear I'm using and enjoying. Of course that has it's own set of problems and limitations.
 
One advantage of mono blocks is that you can place the amplifier near its speaker for both channels and minimize the need for speaker cables. It's easier to send a small signal to the amp than it is to deliver power to a distant speaker. For most living room lengths of wire, I doubt it makes much difference either way.
 
WaynerN said:
The whole point of mono blocks is the robust power supply that enables such power output.
Click to expand...
As for me, I see several potential benefits. In no particular order:

-Improved channel separation
-Typically stiffer power supplies
-Ability to use shorter speaker cables
-Better weight distribution

Each of my mono amps weighs 75 lbs - I’d really rather not have to schlep one twice that heavy since that’s my body weight. :)

Energy storage for the pair is 500 joules.

Digital sources can resolve channel separation improvements.

While not as good sounding, I have equivalent rated power in a small Ncore NC-502mp amp used in the garage system.
 
Last edited:
Entry-level monoblocks are from the days before stereo. Otherwise, 'entry-level' and monoblock are contradictory terms, imo. I would very nearly say the same about tube amps. Modern, entry-level tube monoblocks might as well be unicorns. But I'm sure one from China will soon prove me wrong...
 
Monoblocks is just a term that applies to using two separate mono amps ..

You could be using two stereo amps bridged into mono, or one channel of each of two identical stereo amps and some folks would still call that "monoblocks" ..
And some stereo amps can achieve "dual mono" channel separation by design .. typically with separate power supplies for each channel.

For reasons of dynamics and channel separation, two amps can be better than one but the differences are subtle ..
Bridging stereo amps can result in degradation of the sound qualities of the amp ..

Sounds to me like you're on the right track with improving the rest of your system, and saving "monoblocks" for a later date ..
 
nicholas2381 said:
I'd like to upgrade things in my system, no doubt, but I also like to tinker and learn. So usually I buy something on the cheap that needs some attention but could be decent and (try) to repair it. Helps me to understand things when I can get hands on. Also gives me an emotional connection to the gear I'm using and enjoying. Of course that has it's own set of problems and limitations.
Click to expand...

If you ever decide to make a move into tubes that philosophy will serve you well. Tubes and vintage turntables are two areas where getting your hands dirty is de rigueur.
 
Jeffery said:
They aren't all that much different than having both amps in the same case, functionally speaking. I swap between mono and stereo amps and don't really notice anything glaring that jumps out at me, performance-wise.
Click to expand...

There are some sonic improvements to be found with a dual mono (stereo) amp over a traditional stereo amp (that shares boards between the channels). A happy medium for me. Also far more common than monoblocks.
 
loudnoises said:
There are some sonic improvements to be found with a dual mono (stereo) amp over a traditional stereo amp (that shares boards between the channels). A happy medium for me. Also far more common than monoblocks.
Click to expand...

I've got a Harman Kardon 630 (twin power) that I'm pretty fond of.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom