Benchmark Media Systems
Benchmark AHB2 Power Amplifier
Best power amplifier for audiophiles seeking absolute sonic transparency and precision.
The Benchmark AHB2 is a revolutionary power amplifier designed to deliver unparalleled audio clarity, boasting the lowest noise and distortion levels available. It excels in reproducing the full detail of high-resolution audio formats, with a dynamic range of 132 dB and a frequency response extending beyond 200 kHz. This amplifier is engineered to overcome the limitations of traditional amplifiers, perfectly complementing high-resolution DACs like the Benchmark DAC3. Utilizing THX-patented AAA™ technology with feed-forward error correction, it virtually eliminates distortion, even when driving challenging speaker loads with impedances as low as 1.4 Ohms. Designed, assembled, and tested in the USA, the AHB2 offers exceptional performance for discerning listeners.
$3499.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
37
/ 1677
#37 in Power Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-58%
Below average
Continuous Average Output Power
1008
/ Watts per channel into Ohms, both channels driven
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking absolute transparency and sonic accuracy
- Listeners demanding lifelike dynamics and immersive detail
- Owners of demanding speakers requiring precise control
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing value over extreme performance
- Users powering large rooms or highly inefficient speakers
- Design-focused owners wanting a visually statement-making component
Performance breakdown
Signal Clarity
Industry-leading noise floor delivers absolute silence between musical notes.
Distortion Control
THX AAA technology virtually eliminates harmonic distortion for pristine output.
Load Versatility
Effortlessly drives demanding low-impedance speakers without breaking a sweat.
Dynamic Range
Captures the full intensity of high-resolution audio with remarkable precision.
System Integration
Flexible gain settings ensure perfect matching with any high-end DAC.
Build Integrity
Robust, compact American engineering built for long-term reliability and performance.
Key Specs
Continuous Average Output Power
100 Watts per channel into 8 Ohms, both channels driven
Continuous Average Output Power
130 Watts per channel into 6 Ohms, both channels driven
Continuous Average Output Power
190 Watts per channel into 4 Ohms, both channels driven
Continuous Average Output Power
200 Watts into 16 Ohms, bridged mono
Continuous Average Output Power
380 Watts into 8 Ohms, bridged mono
Continuous Average Output Power
480 Watts into 6 Ohms, bridged mono
Output Voltage
28.28 Vrms into 8 Ohms, both channels driven
Output Voltage
56.57 Vrms into 16 Ohms, bridged mono
Features
- Extremely low noise and distortion for pristine audio reproduction.
- Designed to meet the demands of high-resolution audio formats.
- Utilizes revolutionary THX AAA™ technology for superior clarity.
- Effortlessly drives difficult speaker loads with low impedance.
- Compact and robust design, built in the USA.
- Multiple gain settings for optimal system matching.
- Comprehensive electronic protection circuits for reliability.
What customers say
Customers consistently laud the Benchmark AHB2 Power Amplifier for its extraordinary audio quality, frequently describing the sound as remarkably clean, transparent, and powerful. Users appreciate its ability to reveal intricate details in music without coloration, creating an immersive listening experience. Its compact and robust design is also a recurring highlight, allowing for versatile placement without compromising on its impressive performance. This combination of pristine sound reproduction and thoughtful engineering establishes the AHB2 as a top tier choice for discerning audiophiles seeking sonic purity.
Know before you buy
Yes, the AHB2 is designed to drive challenging speaker loads as low as 1.4 Ohms with ease. Its high output current capability ensures stable performance even with speakers that typically demand a lot from an amplifier.
The THX AAA™ technology utilizes feed-forward error correction to virtually eliminate distortion. This results in an exceptionally clean, transparent sound that preserves the fine details of high-resolution audio recordings.
The AHB2 offers three gain settings (Low, Mid, and High) to help you match the amplifier to your DAC or preamplifier's output level. Use the lowest gain setting that allows you to reach your desired volume levels to maximize the system's signal-to-noise ratio.
Yes, the AHB2 is bridgeable. In bridged mono mode, it delivers significantly more power—up to 480 Watts into 6 Ohms—making it a powerful choice for demanding speakers or high-output requirements.
No, the AHB2 features fully electronic protection circuits. By avoiding mechanical relays, the amplifier ensures long-term reliability and prevents potential signal degradation over time.
The AHB2 features an exceptionally wide frequency response, extending from 0.1 Hz to beyond 200 kHz. This ensures that the amplifier can accurately reproduce the full bandwidth of high-resolution audio formats without phase shift or roll-off in the audible range.
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$3499