When we tested this amp – with its partnering siblings, the Pre vs2 preamp and the PSX-R off-board power supply – what we weren't anticipating was the extra breadth and depth the 8 Power brought to the mix.
The 8 Power has a bottom end that enjoys the sort of solidity and authority that some recent Cyrus amplification has lacked.
The combination of rock-solid, taut, well-modulated low frequencies and dynamic fleet-footedness is thrilling. Add in a plausible soundstage, fanatical attention to transients and a beautifully neutral midrange, and you've an endlessly entertaining amp.
Sure, when you put all three components into a single, three-box combo, it looks a bit of an oddball set-up. But the Cyrus three-way has a long list of talents, and its short-comings are few (our biggest gripe is the length of time it has to be run before sounding its best).
In any case, the 8 Power's contribution is huge: it really is a fine power amplifier.
