"For years, the audio world acknowledged one main contender (at least at sub-five-figure pricing) for the quietest, cleanest, most neutral power amplifier around. That was the Benchmark AHB2, whose specifications are still, for all practical purposes, unsurpassed, even by today’s excellent Class-D amps."
Is it still the amp to beat?
"The amp is compact, runs cool, and is supported by an established US manufacturer. Is it still the amp to beat?"
"A lot has changed since they were launched, but this is our task and it is going to be fun …"
"Years ago, I was among those who believed that further lowering the distortion and noise specs of top audio amplifiers was pointless. But when I heard amps with ultra-low noise and distortion, I instantly loved the sound. Less irritation coupled with more detail have become big factors in my audiophile enjoyment."
What Makes the Benchmark AHB2 Stereo Power Amplifier So Special?
"Two remarkable things about the AHB2 are its relatively high power output, especially in mono mode, and its vanishingly low noise and distortion. Once you have heard a high-powered, ultra-clean amplifier, it’s hard to go back."
"Clean and uncompressed peaks can take the roof off a performance and move it into a freer, more open space."
"When you use an amp with low noise and distortion, imaging and soundstaging are clearer, instrumental timbres truer, voices more natural, and previously fuzzy lyrics snap into focus. This is absolutely addictive."
"I used two Benchmark AHB2 amplifiers as monoblocks in my reference audiophile system, with its multiple subwoofers disconnected, so the AHB2s played the entire frequency range. As always, I listened to a wide variety of music, including pop, rock, jazz, blues, classical, and bluegrass. I also briefly tried the AHB2s in combination with Benchmark’s own DAC3B and LA4 preamplifier (review forthcoming). In comparison to my reference Apollon amplifiers with PuriFi 1ET400A Class D modules, the AHB2s were a bit more relaxed in the treble"
"On every track, I enjoyed the unforced detail and clarity of the Benchmark AHB2s."
Final Thoughts on the Benchmark AHB2 Power Amplifier …
"10 years after its release, the Benchmark Media Systems AHB2 stereo power amp is still a standard-bearer in clean, neutral sound in the audiophile world."
"Although there are less expensive power amps with ultra-low noise and distortion, the AHB2 will be a compelling buy for many picky audiophiles."
Besides its superlative sound with an apparent touch of warmth, the amp offers design by a storied, well-established firm, a five-year warranty, excellent customer service (if you ever need it)."
"I greatly enjoyed having a pair of AHB2s in my system – their purity, neutrality, and seemingly unlimited power provided a clear window on the music and a lot of joy."
"I especially appreciated the AHB2’s smooth, well-integrated treble, free of splashiness or grain, and its natural reproduction of the human voice."
- Mike Prager, Future Audiophile
