Amp Opinions?

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.
 
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.
 
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.
 
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)
 
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
 
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.
 
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.
 
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.
 
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.
 
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.
 
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 :).
 
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.


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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...:disbelief:
long story...
 
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...:disbelief:
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.
 
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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