Cambridge Audio 340A vs 540A V2

[Dizzyboy]

Has anyone had the chance to compare these two? I've only heard the 540A V2, and was very, very impressed. This would be for a bedroom setup, and I would not be listening at deafening volumes. Would the sonic qualities between the two be about the same?

 

[gus6464]

I think the biggest difference between the two will be power ratings. Although I think that with the v2 Cambridge has said that the amp section is more efficient than the v1 (don't know if an amp can be more efficient).

Also are you willing to buy used? Decibel Audio on audiogon is selling a 640A v2 for $399 which is a great deal. I was going to pull the trigger on it but got an Arcam instead.

http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?intatran&1206312118

 

[B3Nut]

They would be the same except for output power. $400 for a used 640A is a great deal, Cambridge makes a solidly-built amplifier. Any good hi-fi amplifier of moderate power would work perfectly well for your stated use, but I do find the Cambridge and Rotel offerings to be impressively-made. I like gear that is built as if the designer actually wants the thing to last longer than its warranty period.

 

[jochie00]

When I opened my 540 V1 I wasn't too impressive with the components inside.
Only 20.000 Microfarads total of Caps and thin wiring going and coming from the amps. Allthough this doesn't say anything about the sound quality I was a bit depressed.

I made some photos which I can either send or publish at a later stage

 

[Brett A]

There's a 540 v1 for sale for $299 at my local shop (they do web sales)
http://www.spearitsound.com/specials.htm
(about the 10th listing down)

 

[jochie00]