Harman Kardon Signature Series 2.1 Multichannel Amplifier

Average customer rating:

Killer Amp -- all five of 'em

Amp with Atl. Tech. THX select

Harman Kardon Signature Series 2.1 Multichannel Amplifier

Manufacturer: Harman Kardon
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

Component Amplifiers | Receivers & Amplifiers | Audio & Video | Categories | Electronics
Audio & Video | Refurbished & Used | Special Features | Electronics Features | Electronics
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Accessories:

Monster Cable I400MKII-1M Interlink 400 MkII Advanced Bandwidth Balanced Audio Interconnect

Monster Z200i-1M Reference Advanced Audiophile Interconnect Cable, 1 Pair (3.26 ft.)

Product Features:

100 watts per channel x 5

High current, ultrawide-bandwidth design

Low negative feedback and low harmonic distortion

Auto turn-on triggered from HK Signature 2.0 preamplifier/surround processor

Fanless cooling design

ASIN: B0000300CS

Product Description

The Signature 2.1's brute-force high-current capability (over 100 amperes!) belies the sonic delicacy and fine detail that this power amplifier is capable of delivering. With an astonishing ultrawide bandwidth of 1kHz to 170kHz (?3dB), the 2.1 provides tight, fast, controlled bass down the lowest reproducible octaves; a panoramic, three-dimensional soundstage; and open, articulate treble. It's warm and natural-sounding at any volume level.Weighing almost fifty pounds, the 2.1 is designed to deliver the full impact of the wide dynamic range of today's movie soundtracks and digital music media. Five separate channels each deliver 100 watts into 8 ohms or 150 watts into 4 ohms, all channels driven 20Hz to 20kHz, with less than 0.03% total harmonic distortion. Yet its efficient design and generous convection heat exchanger totally eliminate the need for noisy forced-air fans.

Amazon.com Review

For those seeking home theater performance a cut above the ordinary, the team of Harman Kardon's Signature Series 2.1 multichannel amplifier and Signature Series 2.0 surround processor/tuner (sold separately) offers superior sound, sophisticated ergonomics, and outstanding build quality.

Manufacturers often slant their power specifications to make a given product appear more powerful than it is. Harman Kardon, however, doesn't need to fudge its specs for this dynamic, well-behaved, and (for its quality) reasonably priced five-channel amplifier. Some amplifiers actually decrease their power output when driving lower-impedance speakers; the Signature Series 2.1 gives you an honest 100 watts per channel (wpc) into 8-ohm speakers and 150 watts with 4-ohm models across the full audible bandwidth, with less than 0.03 percent total harmonic distortion when all channels are driven.

Keep in mind that speakers are rated at "nominal" impedances for the resistance they offer--the impedance of most speakers will vary widely at different frequencies and can dip down well below 4 ohms at certain frequencies. An amp that can't deliver its rated power at those frequencies, whatever they may be, will not sound as good or as powerful as one that can. The Signature 2.1 delivers more power at low impedances, not less. That means it has a beefy (and expensive) power supply.

Regardless of your speakers, you aren't likely to be driving all five channels hard, even during the most taxing Dolby Digital or DTS 5.1-channel movies. However, it's good to know that full power is available simultaneously at all locations if you need it. If your listening includes DTS 5.1-channel music CDs (or if you're planning to get into DVD-audio), you'll appreciate the power even more. Plus, when you're listening in two-channel stereo mode, you'll have plenty of sonic leeway.

The absence of a (usually noisy) cooling fan in the Signature Series 2.1 further exemplifies the great care that Harman Kardon has put into its design. Only careful parts selection and layout could allow this unit to properly dissipate heat without a fan.

But forget the technical mumbo jumbo: this is a fine-sounding amplifier at what is actually a very reasonable price: less than $300 per 100-watt channel. The overall sound of the Signature 2.1 is neutral, with slightly dry (or deaccentuated) mid and high frequencies and well-controlled bass.

Some amplifiers sound harmonically rich, or luscious, but at the expense of transient speed and detail (as you'd need in reproducing a drummer's dynamic rim shot). Other amplifiers sound "fast" but overly dry, lean, and analytical. The 2.1 tends toward this latter group relative to other equipment in its price range but still renders movies and music with enough texture to sound full and satisfying. Harman's high-current design produces a punchy, dynamic overall sound, which is perfect for home theater applications.

As is often the case with matching components, the 2.1's sound perfectly complements the smooth and liquid sound of the Signature Series 2.0 preamplifier/processor. Put the two together and you have a synergistic combination that sounds better than either piece by itself. That said, if you're thinking about one or the other as an add-on to your existing system, either works great with many other brands of preamp/processor or amplifier.

Be sure to provide adequate ventilation for this high-power amplifier and plug it directly in the wall or amplifier socket on your power-line conditioner of choice. You should not use any extension cords. With enough breathing room, the 2.1 should keep your home theater happy for many years to come.

Pros:

High-power, high-current, low-feedback design
Clean, punchy sound
No noisy cooling fan
High build quality
Auto-turn-on trigger when used with Harman Kardon preamp/processor

Cons:

Large chassis requires even larger space for good ventilation
Slightly dry top end (high frequencies)

Amazon.com Product Description

The Harmon Kardon Signature 2.1 Series Multichannel Power Amplifier delivers +/- 100 amps of high-current capability from a quiet, fanless, convection-cooled amplifier. The Harmon Kardon Signature 2.1 is designed to deliver the impact and excitement of state-of-the-art digital music and home theater soundtracks and can handle the most difficult speaker loads under the most demanding conditions (including 4- and 2-ohm speakers). Special features include a high-current and ultrawide-bandwidth design that enables the Signature 2.1 to power most dynamic digital sources with ease. Also included is a built-in trigger circuit for seamless integration with the Harmon Kardon Signature 2.0 Tuner/Processor.

Customer Reviews:

Killer Amp -- all five of 'em.......2004-02-05

I bought a Sig 2.0/2.1 combo because my speakers are 25 years old, the size of small coffins, and have low impeadances. They love current. Even with 45 amps of current, the protection circuits in my old HK AVR500 would kick in under heavy (cranked to the max) loads, and shut the unit off.

Specs:

The amp has 5 X 100 watts per channel for home theater applications. Frequency response is <1Hz - 170kHz, +0dB/-2dB with ?100 Amps of current. Total Harmonic Distortion is rated at <0.03% at rated output.

IMPRESSIONS:

I did an a/b comparison between my Harman Kardonn AVR500 and the signature 2.1 amp. The AVR500 has some of the best amps available in an home theater receiver. The 2.1 amp is made by Madrigal, the division of Harman International which makes Mark Levinson and other ultra high end products, so, I expected some improvement over the 500. I plugged the preamp outs on my AVR500 to the Sig 2.1 using some midgrade RCA cables. To my surprise, the 2.1 is a real improvement. It is fast, detailed, articulate, controlled and powerful. The soundstage is very, very good. The balance is excellent, with a slight low midbass prominence.

What this means is that my speakers found bass I thought they lost to room accoustics or maybe never had. I put on the Fleetwood Mack DVD "The Dance." The grit at the edge Stevie Nicks' voice showed up along with the air over the mike. I put on Guennevere from the Crosby Stills and Nash 4 CD compilation. You could hear the flutter of the bass string along with the note. I always though my speakers were a bit analytical, but they found a warmth in the vocal harmonies I didn't think they had. Yes! (Keys to Ascention DVD) - Emerson, Lake and Palmer (Royal Albert Hall DVD) -- George Benson (DVD Audio) - The Doors (LA Woman DVD Audio) - Horowitz in Moscow (CD) - Cheryl Crow (CD). They all sounded better.

I subsequently bought a Carver M500t amplifier which is a low end audiophile quality amp with 200 watts per channel. The Carver aparently was designed for a "tube" sound, and sounded soft and colored in comparison. The Carver was swiftly sold on e-bay.

Life is good.

Strengths:
Lots of amps. Warm, open sound. Lots of value for the money if you can find one. Made in the USA!

Weaknesses:
I had some problems with one channel of the the amplifier working only intermittently and had to take it back to HK several times. Made in the USA! They couldn't fix it, and eventually replaced it.

Amp with Atl. Tech. THX select.......2000-09-19

This seems like a really nicely built amp. I bought a demo model for under $500 which makes is a real bargain. It runs warm but not hot to the touch. It sounds very dynamic and clean, I can't detect any kind of coloration from the amp. If anything it's too transparent because it will make bad sources sound as they are: bad. I haven't tried it with any big speakers to see how well the bottom end hits, but the top end seems real good. Very dynamic for movies with my Atlantic Tech. System 270 THX Select speakers. The retail prices are a bit high, for $1200 I'd probably prefer other amps such at Outlaw's Model 750 for $1099 or others from Parasound, B&K or Rotel. But if you can find a decent price on this amp it is a high quality product. It could easily meet THX Ultra specs for power and performance.

Product Description

Panasonic SLSX330 Consumer Portable CD Player , Advanced D.sound Technology This advanced technology is comprised of four components that work together to elevate your audio experience to the next level. A Digital Amplifier helps reduce distortion and helps you to achieve crystal-clear sound--even at higher volume levels. And S-XBS and Digital Audio Gain Control help to improve bass response at higher volume levels.

Amazon.com Product Description

The Panasonic SL-SX330 portable CD player was made for active use, incorporating Panasonic's D.sound technology with antiskip protection for high-quality, uninterrupted listening. D.sound comprises 4 key components: a digital amplifier (which helps reduce distortion and helps you to achieve crystal-clear sound--even at higher volume levels), S-XBS bass boost, and digital audio gain control help to improve bass response at higher volume levels. Since the SL-SX330 plays audio CD-R and CD-RW discs, you can enjoy listening to CDs you make at home in addition to commercial CDs.

The CD player uses 2 AA batteries (not included), which last up to 50 hours. You can also power the unit with an optional 4.5V AC/DC adapter, which lets you plug your portable CD player into an outlet.

What's in the Box
CD player, stereo headphones, and a user's manual.

Product Description

The PDC 4424ei CD-ReWriter Kit is a fast 4x4 CD creation solution. Writing at fast 600Kb/s speeds and reading at 3.6MB/s, this fast drive is perfect for experienced users and affordable for first-time users. With 24X read speed who needs an additional CD-ROM Drive!! The PDC CD ReWritable Kit, with its Enhanced IDE interface, can be installed easily and is fully compatible with almost any PC for true plug-and-play capabilities.

Product Description

Premium, Ink Jet 24 Paper for Color Ink Jet Printers
24-lb. 96 brightness.
500 Sheets per Ream
8-1/2 x 11

Product Description

Bay Networks delivers value to customers around the world through Unified Networks solutions, spanning mission-critical telephony and IP-optimized networks. All its network products are supplied with a variety of options in order to satisfy the most sophisticated demands of customers and to provide real flexibility and reliability of network solutions.

Nortel Networks Baystack Arn Router Enet 10/100 Utp Base Unit 32MB Dram

Average customer rating:

Nortel Networks Baystack Arn Router Enet 10/100 Utp Base Unit 32MB Dram

Manufacturer: Nortel Networks
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

UTP BASE UNIT 32MB DRAM

ASIN: B00004ZAO0

Product Description

Nortel Networks BayStack Advanced Remote Node (ARN) router offers the most extensive set of branch office functionality available today. Its modular design provides the capability to build highly flexible networks. The ARN offers great performance and flexible field-upgradeable LAN and WAN options for data and voice communication. These capabilities enable organizations to build networks with technology that can achieve significant competitive advantages.The ARN offers flexible connectivity with a choice of LAN and WAN configurations. Each model has two WAN adapter module slots and an expansion module that provides an array of options for higher density LAN, WAN, or legacy requirements. The WAN modules support serial, ISDN BRI, V.34 modem, and CSU/DSU selections. ARN expansion modules support multiservice voice/data applications, as well as higher density serial connections. The ARN is a key element of Nortel Networks Unified Networks strategy, which includes a broad range of end-to-end multiservice solutions. Unified Networks create greater value for customers worldwide by delivering integrated network solutions spanning data and telephony.

Nortel Networks Baystack Arn Router Enet Base Unit 32MB Dram

Average customer rating:

Nortel Networks Baystack Arn Router Enet Base Unit 32MB Dram

Manufacturer: Nortel Networks
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

UNIT 32MB DRAM

ASIN: B00004ZANB

Product Description

Bay Networks BayStack Advanced Remote Node (ARN) delivers an innovative access router architecture with the performance and modularity to solve today's application needs and meet the increasing demands of the evolving corporate intranet. The BayStack ARN design integrates the functions of multiple devices to reduce the complexity of remote network management. Bay Networks high-speed access routers significantly lower the total cost of ownership and provide the highest degree of investment protection for enterprise networks. The LAN interfaces of the BayStack ARN (Ethernet, 10/100BASE-TX, 100BASE-FX, and Token Ring) offer flexible connectivity. Its two wide area network (WAN) adapter module "slots" provide an array of options for integrating devices (ISDN BRI, Data Service Unit/Channel Service Unit (DSU/CSU), V.34 modem) for primary and backup WAN connectivity. This modular design reduces the number of physical devices and amount of cabling required for system operation, and also facilitates remote network management.

Nortel Networks 32MB DRAM upgrade for BN series FRE2 processors

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Nortel Networks 32MB DRAM upgrade for BN series FRE2 processors

Manufacturer: Nortel Networks
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

Product Description

In today's performance-driven environment, memory upgrades provide an easy, economical alternative to increase system performance. Every memory product Nortel networks offers is designed to help you get maximum performance at the best price to you.This memory upgrade is designed for BN series FRE2 processors.

Product Description

3 Volt Lithium Battery Cylindrical cell with button top.. Guaranteed to meet or exceed original specifications. 100% OEM compatible.

Average customer rating:

Nikon Nuvis Mini i Camera

Manufacturer: Nikon
ProductGroup: Photography
Binding: Electronics

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Nikon | Brands | Electronics Features | Electronics

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ASIN: B00013J868

Product Description

25/4 lens; Real image viewfinder. IR Active AF, from 14'' macro, to infinity. Drop-in film loading. Quiet operation. 3 Print formats: Wide, Classic, Panorama. 4-Mode auto flash, with redeye reducer, cancel & slow sync & range up to 13.8'. Auto exposure. LCD panel, includes frame counter. IX information exchange; prints date, time. Self timer. Optional MLL1 remote control available for separate purchase. Film

Product Description

NEC is a leading vendor of high-quality, innovative printing and imaging solutions for home and businesses. NEC offers a wide variety of ribbons, ink and toner cartridges as well as paper, transparencies and other printer supplies designed to make your documents look sharp and professional.

Product Description

Micro Solutions Enterprises is a leading manufacturer of compatible toner cartridges, completing the line of its printer consumables. MSE's focus on quality consistently drives the company to deliver excellent service and value with all of its product lin

MSE HP 92298A Compatible Toner Cartridge

Average customer rating:

MSE HP 92298A Compatible Toner Cartridge

Manufacturer: MICRO SOLUTION
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

Product Description

Micro Solutions Enterprises' product line includes Premium Inkjets and matched Specialty Photo Paper. MSE inkjets are formulated with the correct mix of lubricating solvents to protect and prolong the life of your printer-head. MSE's quality control process incorporates a computer database that allows MSE to log and track every cartridge. This focus on quality consistently drives the company to deliver excellent service and value with all of its products and solutions. This cartridge is designed for HP LaserJet 4, 4+, 4M, 4M+, 5, 5M, 5N, 5SE, and all compatible EX engines.

Product Description

The BayStack Access Node (AN) routers cost-effectively connect small remote offices and ensure network availability while minimizing network-operating costs. The serial interfaces provide remote office network design flexibility. For mission-critical applications, they facilitate Dial Backup and Bandwidth-on-Demand support. In addition, Dial-on-Demand functionality enables ANs to extend network availability on an as-needed basis to small remote sites, minimizing WAN service costs. Optionally, Synchronous interfaces can be used for SDLC, allowing both IBM SNA and multiprotocol LAN traffic over one consolidated WAN link to the internetwork backbone. The AN easily integrates with the enterprise internetwork by supporting Bay Networks Routing Services (BayRS), which provides support for all major LAN and WAN protocols. The microprocessor, used in the AN's highly integrated design, easily maintains high forwarding and filtering rates regardless of the number of protocols and network interfaces used - even when processing SNMP management inquiries.

Average customer rating:

made my life a lot easier

bought 5 of them. I should know better, right?

Wish it was a bit more affordable

Segway

Segway i180=100% excelence

Segway i180 Human Transporter

Manufacturer: Segway
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

Segway Human Transporters & Accessories | Home Automation & Security | Categories | Electronics
Human Transporters | Segway | Special Features | Electronics Features | Electronics
Accessories:

Segway 12.0 Handlebar Bag for the Segway Human Transporter (Charcoal Grey)

Product Features:

New design for enhanced range, stability and capacity (approx. 83 lbs, with 19 x 25 inch footprint and 260-lb carrying capacity)

14-inch glass-reinforced thermoplastic wheels, 19 inch tubeless, puncture-resistant tires with enhanced traction; 8-inch platform height with 3-4 inches ground clearance

Top speed of 12.5 mph; choose between two emissions free lithium-ion or NiMH battery packs (optional Saphion lithium-ion batteries allow for up to 24 miles on a single charge)

Sleek body, available in four colors: midnight blue, midnight blue/solar yellow, and midnight blue/sport red; adjustable control shaft for trunk storage

Includes keys with unique 64-bit security identification encoding for protection against theft; other convenient features include power assist mode for easy moving up stairs, and a mechanical parking stand

ASIN: B0006HU2FA

Customer Reviews:

made my life a lot easier.......2007-01-03

I got my i180 as a present for helping my mom win $100,000 on a game show (yeah, it really does happen), and I must say that it is a very convenient product (and a great conversation starter). I don't spend money on gas, I don't have to pay transportation fares to get to work, and I'm able to carry a lot more than you think in the bag that's on the front of it! It's great for errands and commuting.

I haven't had any problems with my i180. I haven't been thrown off of it. I've found that the 25 miles on a single charge is more than enough. It takes up very little space, so it's very easy to store in tight areas (I keep mine behind my desk at work and in a corner of my tiny apartment), and the Power Assist Mode makes it easy to take up and down stairs (though, it does take a bit of strength). Just a wonderful machine!

I find that people who have problems and are hurting themselves and others with the Segways are inexperienced and careless. It is very safe if used properly but also can be very dangerous if abused, just like any other transportation device.

bought 5 of them. I should know better, right?.......2006-11-16

Not necessarily, I bought all 5 segways at once, this Spring, thinking it would get us better service. I shipped 3 all-terrains to a client to use on his wildlife lodge overseas and 2 for my brother and me. My brother's got left out in the rain for 3 minutes and is in for repair (ignore what they say, about being able to clean them with a hose - its the handle bars
that can't stand a bit of rain - they should give you fold down rain cover.

As for mine, my charger didn't work for about 7 days - the charger line is REALLY short, and easily disconnects in your garage, and now it won't recharge. There were a couple in shop for similar problems when I went for my training, so assume this is a common problem. I can't take it in for servicing because it's too heavy to put into my car, and my carrier never arrived.

I actually loved mine at first- great dog chaser - except for the ease at which the handlebars swivel off center, sometimes while you are riding, which makes it quite dangerous. And when you panic, you never get over the counter-intuitive way the handlebars turn. It'll take you right into the mud so don't forget your knee pads and helmet. Surely way they came out with new handlebar treatment ( 3 months after we bought, with no abilit y to upgrade - what luck) to remedy the problem.

Remember when you fall, the natural tendency is to hold and and pull the handlebars toward you as you fall. But if the Segway doesn't stop, as happend to me twice, the machine runs back on your body and flattens it. From my pain, I'm guessing it can be deadly dangerous. Think weight + velocity to imagine my injuries.

Now to my biggest gripe: their service. I processed all 5 through the Dallas dealer. He gave up half his commission to 2 dealers so they would service the Stateside I80's. Service? LOL. I bought a carrier with my Segway. That was 8 months ago. Have yet to receive it. Gaithersburg blames Dallas, Dallas was sick. They both had to process it through HQ in N.E. who has yet to answer one single email, despite their promise to have someone call within 48 hours. guess what, it's too late to protest it on my credit card so I guess those clever guys at Segway had me, right?

My conclusion: if you want to die of a coronary out of frustration, this is the product for you. If you want to get service, maybe ordering 100 at a time will work. 5 does not.

On the positive side, incredible gph equivalent mileage - if your charger works - and no expensive insurance- though liability strongly recommended if you are giving it to a kid in college.

Wish it was a bit more affordable.......2006-08-30

We rented the Segway in in Ft. Lauderdale and rode about on the beach. It was amazingly fun. Unbelievable experience. We still remember the thrill of being able to float about. It is effortless after about 10 minutes of practice. Someday I am going to own one just for fun, as I presently I cant see where I can ride it. But it is one of those dream machines you dont easily forget after you have been on it once.

Segway.......2006-04-24

I think this is a great product. Yesterday I saw a man at the picnic day at UCDavis riding one with ease. They are a bit to over priced though. They would be great for college if you don't like bikes. And you can get attachments to carry all your books in. Plus, to carge it you just plug it into a regular outlet.

Segway i180=100% excelence.......2005-07-31

The Segway i180 is the best self transportaion device ever made! Get it now!

Segway 12.0 Handlebar Bag for the Segway Human Transporter (Charcoal Grey)

Average customer rating:

Segway 12.0 Handlebar Bag for the Segway Human Transporter (Charcoal Grey)

Manufacturer: Segway
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

Segway Human Transporters & Accessories | Home Automation & Security | Categories | Electronics

Accessories | Segway | Special Features | Electronics Features | Electronics
Product Features:

Measures 10.75 x 14.5 x 4.5 inches (W x H x D)
Designed specifically for use with all Segway HT models
Small interior pockets hold critical items during travel; also has 2 large rider-side pockets
Holds up to 10 pounds of cargo without disrupting your balance
Made from heavy-duty ballistic nylon

ASIN: B0000AN42E

Amazon.com Product Description

This stylish and durable charcoal-grey handlebar bag mounts conveniently on your Segway transporter's handlebars, letting you carry up to 10 pounds of cargo, from library books and veggies to camera gear and excess clothing. The bag's custom attachment system minimizes weight shifts during riding while ensuring a secure fit to your Segway's handlebars and control shaft. Two pockets on the rider side of the bag keep handheld items like iPods and wallets easily accessible.

Made of heavy-duty, ballistic nylon, the bag also features convenient internal organizer pockets for your keys, tools, or other items. A padded shoulder strap assists you in toting your bag between the transporter and your various destinations. The bag measures 10.75 x 14.5 x 4.5 inches (W x H x D) and has a 12-liter (3.2-gallon) volume.

Electronics:

Electronics

Electronics