Difference between stereo & 2 monoblocks

[Valvomaniac]

Hi,

What is the difference between a stereo amp & 2 monoblocks besides having a common power supply and just one chassis off course?

[EC8010]

>20W per channel stereo is seriously difficult to lift unless it's Class B. It's easier to make monoblocks without internal hum loops, but very easy (almost inevitable) to make external hum loops when in use.

[ray_moth]

My approach is always to use a single stereo chassis wherever possible. I know there are some advantages associated with the monobloc approach, like making each chassis lighter (sometimes necessary with higher power amps) and allowing each monobloc to be located close to its own speaker (possibly a consideration if the distances involved are significant). Other supposed benefits, like the electrical separation of channels to reduce cross-talk, are trivial or non-existent, IMHO.

I also consider building the power supply on a separate chassis and using an 'umbilical' cord to be unnecessary and potentially dangerous, unless you actually need a separate general-purpose 'bench' PSU for testing purposes.

[Wavebourn]

It is easier to build good amps for measurement purposes (to show good specs cheap) with a single channel.

[Dave Cigna]

Originally posted by ray_moth
Other supposed benefits, like the electrical separation of channels to reduce cross-talk, are trivial or non-existent, IMHO.

I agree completely.

-- Dave

[Valvomaniac]

Thanx,

I'll go stereo!

[sorenj07]

Before you go stereo, just keep in mind that it's a LOT easier to derate power transformers and chokes for half the current load in a monoblock configuration. You get a lot more dynamic headroom without having to get custom transformers made, and in general you get a lot more real estate to use things like motor run caps etc. If you decide to switch to bigger tubes, it will be a lot easier because you will have built a rock solid platform for higher power. Finally, it's hard to beat the pure badassery of some tube monoblocks. Enough said. It's your call.


EDIT: What kind of amp are you planning to build? Output tubes? Schematic? If the tubes are somewhat small like the EL84, 6V6, or even SE types, stereo becomes more of a pain. I envision monoblocks as only making sense with higher powered amps.