There’s a huge problem with HD music today say Benchmark and recent advances in high-resolution digital formats have well outpaced most existing amplifier technologies they say. Whilst recordings are possible that have dynamic ranges that exceed 120 to 125 dB Benchmark claim it’s hard to find a power amplifier that can deliver more than 100 to 105 dB of dynamic range. Benchmark’s AHB2 power amplifier approaches 130 dB, making it “10 to 30 dB quieter than the typical audiophile power amplifier”.

The frequency response of the AHB2 extends beyond 200 kHz, to “deliver the ultrasonic detail and fast transients captured by high-resolution recordings”. At the other end of the audio spectrum, the low-frequency response extends below 0.1 Hz. The AHB2 has a high damping factor that augments its extended low-end to deliver “solid, well-controlled bass”.

THX recently patented two new technologies that address crossover distortion, and Benchmark incorporated these innovations into the AHB2 design. These new innovations claim to virtually eliminate crossover distortion while offering opportunities to improve efficiency, damping, and dynamic range.