Powering the unit off, waiting a few seconds and pressing the power button puts the amp back into operational mode.Īs Benchmark products are used regularly in recording studios, all of the AHB2’s connections are balanced. In the event of an amp overload (which happened once during my testing), the amp shuts itself down and the LEDs indicate the nature of the problem. Each channel has three LEDs to indicate clip, temperature and mute. Other than its tiny power button, the front of the amp has no other controls, just a few LEDs to indicate aspects of operation.

A studio version is also available, with a wider front plate to fit equipment racks. If more power is desired, you can buy a second AHB2 and configure them as monoblocks.īenchmark offers the unit with a black or silver anodized faceplate and black heat-sink fins. But the amp’s size makes it appealing when shelf space is limited or when you simply want to minimize your gear real estate. Regularly lifting amps that leave my back barking for Tylenol, I chuckle with relief when carrying the 12.5-pound AHB2 to my audio rack.Īt about $3,000, the Benchmark AHB2 is a substantial investment, and it certainly demonstrates many musical characteristics one would expect at this price point.

And the heat-sink fins account for about a third of that width, making it even more incredible that Benchmark was able to jam so much oomph into such a small body. Even with feet and binding posts, it’s only about 11 inches wide, 4 inches tall and 9 inches deep.

The first thing you notice about the new Benchmark AHB2 is its diminutive size.

Power amplifier reviews