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Thread: Amp Opinions?

  1. #1
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    Amp Opinions?

    Sound quality is subjective I know but I thought I'd throw this out for discussion.

    I currently use the Levinson 532h which is my sweet spot personally for amp sound, pretty much. I would like to have a high current amp but the next Levinson is $20k. The 532h uses banks of smaller capacitors for quick response but isn't actually high current like typical Levinson.

    When I say sweet spot, I like a quick amp with control but not sterile. Like control with micro/macro dynamics. Pass is too polite for example, although I do like Pass. Bryston is some dry and seems to lack the micro/macro I like. These are my opinions, both good amps. On paper D'Agostino would meet this but I have yet to hear the same characters personally as stated in reviews.

    Here's the question, is there any power amps under $10k that is high current and would be some upgrade from the 532h? Like a Levinson without the name. I know some may not even be a Levinson fan but this is all from my perspective, smile. Also, not meaning to start any arguments over amps but if I didn't give my opinion you wouldn't have a reference for a personal enough suggestion.
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  2. #2

    Re: Amp Opinions?

    AVM MA 8.2 perhaps.


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    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

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  3. #3
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Constellation Inspiration perhaps. It might be a couple of grand above but it seems one of the unbelievable bargains in high end audio.


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  4. #4
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Parasound JC5
    Morgan

    NEW SYSTEM UNDER CONSTRUCTION

  5. #5
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Luxman M700u. With your speakers, you don’t need any more power.

    Frankly, if it was ME, based on your desired characteristics, I would look at a NAIM system. NAIM is super dynamic, super FAST, musical, 3D, never fatiguing.

    Since you have such efficient speakers, you could look at:

    SuperNAIT 3 with a HiCAP DR.

    Strongly recommend a NAIM source to go with it and don’t forget you need NAIM speaker cables!

    One last suggestion: SimAudio 760A


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    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

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  6. #6
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Quote Originally Posted by Kuoppis View Post
    AVM MA 8.2 perhaps.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    Looks like $32k and I'm not sure if that's for a pair. I don't have it like that, LOL But if someone was to gift me a pair...……
    Thanks for the reply though.
    Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
    Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
    Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
    Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables

    HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
    SVS PC13 Ultra
    Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
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  7. #7
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    I like Naim, really don't want to change most of the system. Sim, to me, has even more of that Canadian house sound than Bryston.

    I will look at the Luxman. I got the impression from comments Luxman leaned some polite. Does T+A have anything that fits the criteria?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Luxman M700u. With your speakers, you don’t need any more power.

    Frankly, if it was ME, based on your desired characteristics, I would look at a NAIM system. NAIM is super dynamic, super FAST, musical, 3D, never fatiguing.

    Since you have such efficient speakers, you could look at:

    SuperNAIT 3 with a HiCAP DR.

    Strongly recommend a NAIM source to go with it and don’t forget you need NAIM speaker cables!

    One last suggestion: SimAudio 760A


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
    Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
    Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
    Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables

    HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
    SVS PC13 Ultra
    Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
    Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
    Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer

  8. #8
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Nope. Nothing from T+A in your budget range.


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    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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  9. #9
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Might be worth looking at the two new Coda amplifiers. Terry London reviewed the #8 last year and the review of the newer #16 should be out shortly.

    https://hometheaterreview.com/coda-t...reo-amplifier/
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  10. #10

    Re: Amp Opinions?

    So what’s the matter with your current amp?
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  11. #11

    Amp Opinions?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mr Peabody View Post
    Looks like $32k and I'm not sure if that's for a pair. I don't have it like that, LOL But if someone was to gift me a pair...……
    Thanks for the reply though.
    Of course there’s a significant difference in pricing for EU gear in the US, compared to Europe.

    In the EU they are 20K/ pair, and there’s also a newer slightly smaller sibling AVM Ovation MA 6.2 for 15K/pair (newer, even more favorably reviewed).


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    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

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  12. #12

    Re: Amp Opinions?

    if you are patient and enjoy the hunt ...you can often find the Levinson No536s used for $15k pair or less used and they would go really well with your No526 Preamp! I've seen the No534 used for $10k or slightly under used. I own the No536s and they are really good amps.

    George
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  13. #13
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    I"m with Mike on the Naim gear. I"ve always loved it for the price ranges it competes in. What most folks just don't seem to deal with is how components work together in a system. Levinson may sound great in your system and not as good in others. Same with Naim or anything else for that matter. It's why I need to work with dealers who have a nice assortment of gear. I've rarely gone into Mikes (when visiting family in Sarasota) and not seen totally different systems set up. The last time down, he showed me how great the Harbeth 40.2's were. Heck, I've heard them at friends houses and even at Walters (the distributor). I have always liked them, but not like Mike had them set up. WE could have listened for hours and hours, but I had a timeline due to family things. He was using top MSB gear and a full loom of AQ Dragon.

    I forgot what pre you are using? Will you change out to the same brand pre? Just things to keep in mind as we all tell you how great our own amps are etc... lol. .
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  14. #14

    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Quote Originally Posted by Ctsooner View Post
    I"m with Mike on the Naim gear. I"ve always loved it for the price ranges it competes in. What most folks just don't seem to deal with is how components work together in a system. Levinson may sound great in your system and not as good in others. Same with Naim or anything else for that matter. It's why I need to work with dealers who have a nice assortment of gear. I've rarely gone into Mikes (when visiting family in Sarasota) and not seen totally different systems set up. The last time down, he showed me how great the Harbeth 40.2's were. Heck, I've heard them at friends houses and even at Walters (the distributor). I have always liked them, but not like Mike had them set up. WE could have listened for hours and hours, but I had a timeline due to family things. He was using top MSB gear and a full loom of AQ Dragon.

    I forgot what pre you are using? Will you change out to the same brand pre? Just things to keep in mind as we all tell you how great our own amps are etc... lol. .
    No doubt we all have our own biased opinions and mine is certainly no less biased than most I had suggested the Levinson amps as he already has the matching Levinson Preamp and the synergy of those components is quite good. To start swapping out everything close to his budget could lead to more of a lateral move than a definitive upgrade. Just my 2c and not worth much more!
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  15. #15
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Quote Originally Posted by gadawg View Post
    No doubt we all have our own biased opinions and mine is certainly no less biased than most I had suggested the Levinson amps as he already has the matching Levinson Preamp and the synergy of those components is quite good. To start swapping out everything close to his budget could lead to more of a lateral move than a definitive upgrade. Just my 2c and not worth much more!

    Dawg, I hope I didn't upset folks with my statement, but as we all know we bought our gear, because we love it. It works for us and most will recommend what we own. It's not a bad thing either as folks can follow peoples posts and what we like and don't like.

    I stated similar to you IRT keeping your electronics the same. Synergy is the most important thing for electronics. This is why I personally wish we had more active speakers. I missed the fact that he said he has the matching preamp. The only caution I have is that Levinson has changed their designers often over the years. It's mostly been by committee. If he gets a new amp, it probably isn't as similar to the older preamp, so the synergy may not be there. It's just something to think about as another variable.

    This is why it's so important to bet an amp into his system to see how it works.

    If I was in OP's situation, I'd think amp LAST. The Preamp is the most important piece of the puzzle. So many think that changing amps is the best way to go, when in fact, if you aren't getting what you want, look at the pre first. I was at Ayre last summer and visiting with friends there who talked about preamp over amp. WE then went into the listening area and they showed me. I've felt that all along and after that demonstration, to me, it's the reality.
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    The Memory Player with built in DAC and headphone amp built in on order
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    Wireworld 8 optical cable into the Empirical Audio Synchro Mesh from the TV and Blueray to reclock
    Wireworld Platnium 8 ethernet cables into the EMO 70e ethernet filter into The Memory Player from Eero mesh router
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  16. #16

    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Quote Originally Posted by Ctsooner View Post
    Dawg, I hope I didn't upset folks with my statement, but as we all know we bought our gear, because we love it. It works for us and most will recommend what we own. It's not a bad thing either as folks can follow peoples posts and what we like and don't like.

    I stated similar to you IRT keeping your electronics the same. Synergy is the most important thing for electronics. This is why I personally wish we had more active speakers. I missed the fact that he said he has the matching preamp. The only caution I have is that Levinson has changed their designers often over the years. It's mostly been by committee. If he gets a new amp, it probably isn't as similar to the older preamp, so the synergy may not be there. It's just something to think about as another variable.

    This is why it's so important to bet an amp into his system to see how it works.

    If I was in OP's situation, I'd think amp LAST. The Preamp is the most important piece of the puzzle. So many think that changing amps is the best way to go, when in fact, if you aren't getting what you want, look at the pre first. I was at Ayre last summer and visiting with friends there who talked about preamp over amp. WE then went into the listening area and they showed me. I've felt that all along and after that demonstration, to me, it's the reality.
    Hey ... I can't imagine anyone gettin upset with your post! Totally valid for sure! Of note and the reason I suggested he might want to consider the newer Levinson amps is that he has the newer matching preamp already that was designed by the same team led by Todd E who came to Harman from Krell several years ago and both his 526 and the 534 or 536 have the same general architecture. I had the 526 in my room for a while with the 536s and they do work really well. I just opted for a tube front end recently after trying several different preamps and found one that worked well with those amps. And I certainly agree that without the ability to do extensive testing you can often get best results matching gear. Cheers!

    George
    Wilson Audio Alexx|Pair of Rel No25’s
    VAC Statement Preamplifier
    VAC Statement 452 Monoblocks
    Sonorus ATR10 MkII
    Esoteric D-02X|Esoteric P-02X|Aurender W20SE
    MIT Oracle MA-X SHD SC and IC
    Transparent Reference Power

  17. #17

    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Quote Originally Posted by Ctsooner View Post

    ....

    If I was in OP's situation, I'd think amp LAST. The Preamp is the most important piece of the puzzle. So many think that changing amps is the best way to go, when in fact, if you aren't getting what you want, look at the pre first. I was at Ayre last summer and visiting with friends there who talked about preamp over amp. WE then went into the listening area and they showed me. I've felt that all along and after that demonstration, to me, it's the reality.
    If you are correct and one's preamp is just a switch box (just an analog bypass box), then the most important equipment is the DAC feeding the switch box (preamp).

  18. #18
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    I use a darTZeel NHB-108 which I am a huge fan of. A used one might not be to far outside your budget...

  19. #19
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    MEP, nothing wrong with my current amp, it replaced a Pass X250. It's not like I have to upgrade or unhappy. The JBL's seem to sound better with some volume to them, I was wondering if an amp with higher current would get them off the ground better at lower volumes. The 532h is a very good amp, differentially balanced, yet a different design than typical Levinson amps,, it's not exactly a high current amp. I find it to be nicely flat and accurate, it doesn't add anything, shows the difference in bass response between recordings etc. I'm just sort of exploring, so far it seems many of the complaints on pricing is warranted. Sometimes looking over the fence helps you realize your yard is fine, LOL

    Guys, the only thing I was exploring was a possible amp change. I love the 526, it has a much nicer sound than the 326, IMO. I do try to follow same brand and keep with brands that have synergy.

    I actually have a Coda CSX, it is a good amp if looking for solid state leaning toward a tube sound. In my system the 532h is better/preferred. My friend has a couple of the Coda Class A amps, I forgot the model, they are great amps, just don't think they are what I am looking for. Good suggestion though.

    I read a review on the Constellation 1.0, the reviewer had Levinson amps for comparison and Revel Salons. I didn't like his impressions on the 1.0 bass response but in the end it was his preferred amp to listen to. I'll have to track Constellation down at my next audio show.

    The Luxman M700u is worth a listen as well, good reviews. It doesn't look to be balanced though. It has XLR inputs but not differentially designed.
    Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
    Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
    Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
    Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables

    HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
    SVS PC13 Ultra
    Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
    Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
    Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer

  20. #20
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Quote Originally Posted by JeremyMTB View Post
    I use a darTZeel NHB-108 which I am a huge fan of. A used one might not be to far outside your budget...
    Welcome to the forum.
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  21. #21
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Quote Originally Posted by nicoff View Post
    If you are correct and one's preamp is just a switch box (just an analog bypass box), then the most important equipment is the DAC feeding the switch box (preamp).
    It's a heck of a lot more than a switch box as we all know. Even the best ever pre amps still add or subtract to the sound. If what you said was true, then it wouldn't matter what preamp you use, correct?

    In addition, if the DAC was more important, then I'd say it's the source since that's where it all starts. If it's not in the original signal...... I also trust the designers who also make and sell the amps and DAC's and streamers when they say it's the preamp. I've also heard the same when auditioning systems since the early 70's.
    System:
    Vandersteen Quatro CT
    Ayre AX5/20
    The Memory Player with built in DAC and headphone amp built in on order
    AQ Niagara 1000 power device
    Audioquest William Tell bi wire speaker cable
    Wireworld 8 optical cable into the Empirical Audio Synchro Mesh from the TV and Blueray to reclock
    Wireworld Platnium 8 ethernet cables into the EMO 70e ethernet filter into The Memory Player from Eero mesh router
    All routers, cable box and synchro mesh powered by the Wyred4sound LPS box with separate supplies for each
    Audioquest power outlets and four dedicated power lines in the room
    ZMF Ori headphones with the Audioarts 15' Pono balanced cable for the QX5/20
    Empire Ears Phantom CIEM's
    Rhapsodio 2.98 mk2 gold plated silver cable for Phantom

  22. #22
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Guys, quick question....how do I change my signature? I can't find the link for some reason. Thanks.
    System:
    Vandersteen Quatro CT
    Ayre AX5/20
    The Memory Player with built in DAC and headphone amp built in on order
    AQ Niagara 1000 power device
    Audioquest William Tell bi wire speaker cable
    Wireworld 8 optical cable into the Empirical Audio Synchro Mesh from the TV and Blueray to reclock
    Wireworld Platnium 8 ethernet cables into the EMO 70e ethernet filter into The Memory Player from Eero mesh router
    All routers, cable box and synchro mesh powered by the Wyred4sound LPS box with separate supplies for each
    Audioquest power outlets and four dedicated power lines in the room
    ZMF Ori headphones with the Audioarts 15' Pono balanced cable for the QX5/20
    Empire Ears Phantom CIEM's
    Rhapsodio 2.98 mk2 gold plated silver cable for Phantom

  23. #23
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Under settings.
    Main - JVC QL-Y7/Denon DL-301 Mk II, Gold Note PH-10, Jays CDT3 Mk3 , Auralic Aries G2.2, Holo May KTE, Supratek Cabernet, Kinki Studio EX-B7 monoblocks, Verity Audio Otello, (2) Rythmik F12SE, Audio Envy IC, SC & PC's, Triode Wire Lab PC's, Inakustik USB and I2S, (2) Puritan Audio Labs PSM-156 with Groundmaster City, Timbernation rack

    Family Room - Oppo UDP-203, Auralic Aries, Aqua La Voce S3, Kinki Studio EX-M1+, Nola KO, (2) Rythmik F-12G, Wireworld SC & IC's, Neotech PC's, SurgeX SA-1810

    Greenville, SC- Jays CDT2 Mk 3, Auralic Aries G1, Holo Spring 3 KTE, Supratek Chardonnay, Odyssey Audio Kismet Reference, Rosso Fiorentino Volterra 2, (2) RSL Speedwoofers, iFi Audio Power Station, Wireworld IC's, Inakustik USB and I2s, Triode Wire Lab SC, Triode Wire Lab PC's, Furutech NCF Clear Line, Timbernation rack.

  24. #24

    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Quote Originally Posted by Ctsooner View Post
    It's a heck of a lot more than a switch box as we all know. Even the best ever pre amps still add or subtract to the sound. If what you said was true, then it wouldn't matter what preamp you use, correct?
    ...,
    Actually, the manufacturer of the preamp says that in bypass mode their preamp is just like a connector wire. So I am using the manufacturer’s representation.

  25. #25
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Quote Originally Posted by nicoff View Post
    Actually, the manufacturer of the preamp says that in bypass mode their preamp is just like a connector wire. So I am using the manufacturer’s representation.
    I'm only talking about using a preamp as a preamp in a stereo configuration. I'm only discussing using the preamp as a stereo preamp and not bypassing it as that's not what a preamp is for in a stereo system. Home theater, sure, but not audio as we are discussion.
    System:
    Vandersteen Quatro CT
    Ayre AX5/20
    The Memory Player with built in DAC and headphone amp built in on order
    AQ Niagara 1000 power device
    Audioquest William Tell bi wire speaker cable
    Wireworld 8 optical cable into the Empirical Audio Synchro Mesh from the TV and Blueray to reclock
    Wireworld Platnium 8 ethernet cables into the EMO 70e ethernet filter into The Memory Player from Eero mesh router
    All routers, cable box and synchro mesh powered by the Wyred4sound LPS box with separate supplies for each
    Audioquest power outlets and four dedicated power lines in the room
    ZMF Ori headphones with the Audioarts 15' Pono balanced cable for the QX5/20
    Empire Ears Phantom CIEM's
    Rhapsodio 2.98 mk2 gold plated silver cable for Phantom

  26. #26
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Current? 150 amps of peak current in short bursts....Marantz MA9-S2 monoblocks. Love mine--going to try on my JBL 4365 (currently driving JBL 1400 Array's)

  27. #27
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Nope. Nothing from T+A in your budget range.
    Well T+A does have an amplifier in the range, but I am sure not what Mr Peabody is looking for . Nothing from the HV series, but certainly trickle down tech. However the Amp 8 does have some pretty impressive specs.... including the widest bandwidth I have ever seen in an amplifier, 1 Hz – 200 kHz!

    From Mike's website:
    T+A AMP 8 - SHOP NOW at Suncoast Audio
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

    “One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
    "You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
    ― Neil deGrasse Tyson

  28. #28
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    You want an amp with high output which can give you the sweet spot which attracts a realistic price and can handle most speakers of various natures then maybe investigate Nord amps. The only snag is direct purchase with 14 day return for refund. However users seem to like this brand and have good relationships with the owner.

  29. #29
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    I think he is referencing high current amplifiers not high output. Class D amps are perfect for those who are looking for high output.

    A good analogy is in the automotive world of horsepower vs. torque.. High horsepower can provide higher top speeds but torque is what really gets the car moving... output versus current... I believe T+A and their HV amplifiers are the pinnacle.

    I could be wrong of course, but this is my understanding when someone refers to high current amplifier versus high output amplifiers.
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

    “One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
    "You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
    ― Neil deGrasse Tyson

  30. #30
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Quote Originally Posted by Randy Myers View Post
    I think he is referencing high current amplifiers not high output. Class D amps are perfect for those who are looking for high output.

    A good analogy is in the automotive world of horsepower vs. torque.. High horsepower can provide higher top speeds but torque is what really gets the car moving... output versus current... I believe T+A and their HV amplifiers are the pinnacle.

    I could be wrong of course, but this is my understanding when someone refers to high current amplifier versus high output amplifiers.
    This is one audiophile "truth" where I disagree. For a fixed speaker load, there's no such thing as more amps without more power. Watts = Current^2 x Resistance. Using the example of the Marantz mentioned above, 300W into 8 ohms = 6A, not 150. To me, the high current mentioned really only means it's able to handle a very low impedance transient or unusually reactive load. That's not a bad thing, certainly, but it's completely different than magically having 150A available at 8 ohms (which would equal 180,000W - a load that just might overwhelm a household circuit).

    A Class D amp like the Hypex NCore 1200 that puts out 1200W at 2 ohms still only has to provide 25A continuous. But the NC1200 module is good for 40A for 200ms, which is more than enough to handle any real-world music load for anything but the lowest impedance speakers.

    With quite high sensitivity JBL speakers, I'd be surprised if the OP was running out of amp current headroom unless listening volumes are on the earth-shattering end of the scale. How the amp provides that current (power supply size/stability, capacitor configuration) and amp topology is likely to be more significant.
    Jeff

    Main System
    Streamer/Server: Aurender N100H; Disc Player: Oppo UDP-205; DAC: Topping D90SE; Preamp: Wyred 4 Sound STP-SE Stage 2; Power Amp: ATI AT542NC; Speakers: Focal Sopra No. 3; Cables: Wireworld, Kimber, Cullin; Power: Ansuz Mainz8 X-TC, PS Audio Dectet, Furutech outlets

    Basement Media Room
    Streamer/Server: Aurender N100SC; Disc Player: Panasonic DB-UP9000; Surround Pre/Pro: Monoprice Monolith HTP-1; Power Amps: Apollon NC1200SL (custom 3-channel w/Sparkos SS2590 op amps), Apollon AS3600 6-channel; Speakers: Focal Kanta No. 3, Kanta Center, 300 ICW8 (x6); Subwoofer: Rythmik F18SE (x2); Cables: Wireworld, BlueJeans; Power: Torus RM20, Furman Elite 20PFi; Room Correction: Dirac Live w/ Bass Control; Video: Sony 77" A9G OLED

  31. #31
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    I'm not a tech, high current amps typically have a sound character about them, able to deal with low impedances as well as control the sound. You have Naim who has comparative low power but has tons of current then amps like D'Agostino with both tons of power and current.

    I'm not sure about the Class D mentioned but some of those have higher current designs, Merrill Audio comes to mind.

    I had a friend who had Marantz Reference, older models, driving Dynaudio C4's, the system sounded great. I'm not sure why Marantz don't offer the separates anymore. Maybe it's the current integrated fad.
    Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
    Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
    Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
    Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables

    HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
    SVS PC13 Ultra
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    Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
    Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer

  32. #32
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Mr. P

    I think a preamp matters just as much for low level listening. I had the Pass XP-1 preamp with my X250 amp. While I did not really care for the preamp, I did love the fact that low level listening was great. When I switched to my BAT pre, I loved what it brought to the table as far as tone, musicality and dynamics but low level listening lost its luster.
    My Gear- Mains System-Pass X250 amp, BAT VK-51se preamp, Luxman DA-06 DAC, Magnepan 1.6's, Thorens TD-145 TT, Dual Martin Logan Subs, Vintage Luxman T-110 Tuner, Cables-WW Platinum 7 USB, Cardas Parsec XLR, AQ Columbia DBS 72v XLR, Belden 8402 XLR.

  33. #33
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    I have always felt a pre-amp was very important. We all have preferences, of course. I prefer a pre that lets the music flow without adding, or subtracting. I personally love the Hattor in these regards. I am a lower level listener, but some times let it fly a bit. So far it seems to sound really good at any level .
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

    “One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
    "You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
    ― Neil deGrasse Tyson

  34. #34
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    Amp Opinions?

    What Bryston did you hear? I have a 4b3 that now runs my center channel and it’s nothing to write home about. Worst amp I have in my system. However the 28b3’s are fantastic. Great detail.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    Preamp/Digital: Meitner MA3
    HT Processor: Bryston SP3
    Amps: Bryston 14b3, Bryston 4b3
    Speakers: Kef Reference 5, Kef Reference 4c
    Sub: REL Carbon Special
    Power: Shunyata Denali, Bryston BIT15
    Wires: Wireworld Silver Eclipse XLR & SC, Ethernet - WW Platinum USB
    Other: Stillpoint Ultra SS, ISO-Acoustics ISO Pucks

    -Kyle

  35. #35

    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Mr. Peabody,
    it seems like you really like your Levinsons, in which case you can find the newer 534 used or demo in your price range.
    I have the same amp as yours the 532h, but haven't heard it yet...
    long story...

  36. #36
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    Quote Originally Posted by Lucidear View Post
    Mr. Peabody,
    it seems like you really like your Levinsons, in which case you can find the newer 534 used or demo in your price range.
    I have the same amp as yours the 532h, but haven't heard it yet...
    long story...
    The 532h really is a good amp, fast and transparent. The 534 would be a nice upgrade though Trust me, if I found a good deal and timing was right I wouldn't hesitate to snag one.
    Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
    Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
    Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
    Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables

    HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
    SVS PC13 Ultra
    Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
    Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
    Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer

  37. #37
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    Re: Amp Opinions?

    If you're still looking for amps, there is a really nice pair of Conrad-Johnson ART300 monoblocks for sale for about $10K on that auction site. These amps have received nothing but superb reviews.

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