RSSTheta Dreadnaught II Seven-Channel Amplifier Reviewed
- By: Jerry Del Colliano,
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Loosely named after a powerful battleship, this powerhouse seven-channel 225-watts-per-channel modular amp is a surprisingly good multi-channel amplifier for both music and movies. Theta is known and respected for their source components and electronics, such as their modular Casablanca III AV preamp, more than for making audiophile amplifiers. Recently, when Theta was sold, the suitor was in fact the OEM company ATI, which makes Theta's amps for them. Insiders know that Morris Kessler at ATI makes one hell of a solid amp and the Theta Dreadnaught II is no exception.• Read more Theta reviews including the Casablanca AV Preamp, Theta Pro Gen 5 DAC and Carmen DVD player.
The Theta Dreadnaught II is a modular amplifier that can have either mono or stereo modules added to provide between two and 10 channels, as your audio system demands. The basic chassis, which is gorgeous, by the way, with its curved silver face and sexy industrial design, is $2,250. Each 225-watt channel module is $850 per board, with the 100-watts-per-channel stereo module costing $1,000 each. A stylish aluminum top is an additional $250. A loaded Dreadnaught II weights 98 pounds and is 17.5 inches wide by 8.5 inches tall and 23.5 inches deep.
The sound of the Theta Dreadnaught II is reminiscent of ATI amps, but with a little more refinement. This is no all-sizzle digital amp that delivers only on the spec sheet. The Theta Dreadnaught II is a manly amp, with class AB operation, giving your surround sound system low-end weight, along with openness on the high end that is voiced to match Theta Digital's very resolute front-end electronics.
Read The High Points, The Low Points and the Conclusion on Page 2
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Comment on this article
Definitely a looker this amp. Theta for mself, has been one of those companies for me, that has escaped my attention here in New York. I have never seen or heard one before. But, after this review, I certainly would like to demo one.
My nephew is a proud owner of a Theta Dreadnaught. The optimum config for sorround performance out of this krakatoa would be 225watts for the centre, front left, front right while 100watts for the sorrounds will give you the whole 9yards of theatre experience. Make sure you get speakers atleast twice the power of this Liviathan, else the speakers will move and even spikes will not hold them in place. This amp can never be out dated & you dont have to look at another amp for the rest of your life believe u me! You can throw the largest speakers in the world at this amp and you will get pure, colourless, effortless, full, complete and hefty performance.
I agree with Sukkumar - this amp is a MONSTER. The configuration is also very helpful.
The Dreadnaught also looks pretty on the rack but that's secondary to its sound.
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