Thread: Top Tier Amps
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April 2, 2021, 04:40 AM #251
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April 2, 2021, 08:33 AM #252
Re: Top Tier Amps
I am not a huge fan of splitting various models within a brand to different tiers. It is almost like you are saying that Brand X makes this one amazing model that they use for brand reputation but then sell these other off shoots off the big boy's reputation.
I personally believe a brand is only as good as its lowest offerings; otherwise I feel that they are being deceiving with their lower models, since the obvious outcome is that they may sell a few of the high models and a ton of the low lines off the big model. I know there are some out there who have really top notch gear but also sell cheap knock offs which is not the same gear. A brand's reputation should be by its lowest models not its highest. The other method does eventual gain the company a bad reputation.
Lets use T+A as an example. Their HV series is absolutely amazing and deserves the praise it gets but the Series 8 is quite outstanding on its own and deserves the praise it gets. The DAC 8 DSD once again gained an A+ rating in the latest Stereophile magazine even though it is their "low" model. To me that is a stellar manufacture. You may give up some features or absolute highest level and power, but you get the same quality of construction, same house sound; you are indeed buying the same reputation and quality. This can not be said for many manufactures out there.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
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April 2, 2021, 08:42 AM #253
Top Tier Amps
That’s a fair comment. Too many Johnny-Come-Lately brands too to even have a ranking. This isn’t performance. If someone wants to start a thread on performance, have at it. This is about market perception. If I ask 20 people about some of these new brands, I assure you, 19 or 20 will say “who?”
I’ve heard Block Audio is outstanding for example. But again, this isn’t about performance, it’s about perception of the brand.
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.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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April 2, 2021, 09:19 AM #254
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April 2, 2021, 09:21 AM #255
Re: Top Tier Amps
“Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”
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.
HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.
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April 2, 2021, 11:41 AM #256
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Re: Top Tier Amps
Hi Mike, I’ll work on the signature. This all came about as a result of my wife rupturing her appendix when in NYC for some training 2 years ago. I got tired of watching her be sick (9 days in intensive care) and went to visit the woman who did my acoustic remodel (based in Manhattan), and then to some shops to hear music. I stopped by Rhapsody Audio (a bunch of AudioSharks had met there several years back) for a social visit and was gobsmacked by the Diesis speakers he was playing. I wanted a pair in my house (!) but didn’t have the budget.
Fast forward about a month ago, my sweet wife asks do I want new speakers? Sure, I answered, but what makes sense? Easy would be upgrade to Alexia v2, or Alexx V, but at Alexx V pricing I need to hear many others, including Diesis. I called Bob @ Rhapsody wrt Diesis, and he also has Alsyvox which got a lot of positive press the last couple RMAF shows. But how to audition? The topic comes up of Bob’s idea of remote showrooms, or as he calls them Remote Listening Rooms. I take the bait because how else can I audition several killer speakers in my own room, really getting to know them to make a choice for myself. Along the way I decide to get new electronics as well—as you say my lifetime favorite Audio Research really is a solid Tier 3 brand (though the synergy in my room has been spectacular.)
Enter Pilium. (Pilium Audio - Audio Components) Like you say some risks with these less-well-known brands but they might be the next “big thing.” That Alon Wolfe has chosen them to drive the M9s told me they must be the real deal. (Certainly reference prices, but not so high as many.)
So, yes, I will be the Portland version of the Rhapsody RLR. Not quite sure that puts me in dealer category, I won’t be doing any selling, negotiating, contracting with manufacturers. All that is done by Rhapsody—I’m just a remote location to audition some gear.
Mono & Stereo had a press release: https://www.monoandstereo.com/2021/0...ooms-rlrs.html
Pilium kit...
MODEL - TYPE - RETAIL PRICE
ALEXANDER PREAMP Double Chassis $49,900usd
ARES PREAMP Single Chassis $34,9000usd
ACHILLES STEREO AMP 300W - 8ohm $49,000usd
IASONAS STEREO AMP 200W - 8ohm $29,000usd
Apollo Monos 200W8ohm $59,000 usd
Poseidon Monos 250W8ohm $79,000 usd
HERCULES MONO AMPS 350W - 8ohm $99,900usd
Odysseus 180W 8 ohm $29,900usd
LEONIDAS INTEG AMP 200W - 8ohm $39,900usd
ELEKTRA Digital to Analog Converter $39,900usd
Amps & integrated double down into 4 ohms, again into 2 ohms, stable @ 1 ohm. (I think thats the same as Dagostino amps)
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April 2, 2021, 11:52 AM #257
Re: Top Tier Amps
That is awesome Bob. I also assume that everything is by appointment and around your schedule. It is a way of you auditioning some of the models that you are interested in and being able to try others that you may not have previously been interested in . Of course you need the physical space to allow for this ...
Congratulations on your new adventure!
By the way, what are those speakers that you use as your avatar? They are Alsyvox are they not? They look very interesting (certainly way out of my range).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
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April 2, 2021, 12:11 PM #258
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Re: Top Tier Amps
Thank you Randy. Yes, appointment only kind of a thing. My wife has been wanting me to retire but I’ve been reluctant. She saw this as a lever. Its an opportunity I never would have imagined for myself, but I already host folks from the local audio club, this just extends that a bit.
The speakers in the avatar are Alsyvox Botticelli. I am getting those with the external crossovers, so the “X” model. Several RMAF reviews in 2018 and 2019 had those “best of show”. But this is amp thread I’ll stop there.
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April 2, 2021, 12:14 PM #259
Re: Top Tier Amps
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
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April 2, 2021, 12:58 PM #260
Re: Top Tier Amps
Found this review on the Block's date June 2020: My top 5 cost-no-object power Amplifiers - YouTube
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August 3, 2021, 09:18 AM #261
Re: Top Tier Amps
Nothing new Tiering up ..!
Regards* An Audiophile is only as old as his latest Class D incarnation *
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August 3, 2021, 09:29 AM #262
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Re: Top Tier Amps
we always could change the criterias again
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August 3, 2021, 09:39 AM #263
Re: Top Tier Amps
how about doshi audio?
viking acoustics berlin r mk2 | air tight atc-5 + atm-300r | clearaudio concept + virtuoso v2 MM | t+a dac8 dsd + kanjiroba diy transport + roon rock
alp-tone audio analog cables | core audio designs plyKraft 3L | hifi racks ltd podium t5-iii
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August 3, 2021, 11:59 AM #264
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Re: Top Tier Amps
Based strictly upon my audition of seven of the amp brands you have listed I would move those into the first tier. I'm speaking of Luxman, VAC, Pass, Hegel, Gryphon, SimAudio and Naim. IMHO, these are exemplary brands with exemplary sound quality worthy of a top tier ranking. As I've said many times, it's mostly about preference. My personal preference is predictably for Pass Labs as I purchased a Pass INT 250 which I love. I did so after auditioning amps from the seven brands listed above. Not that the others listed in the top tier are not deserving. Purchasing any of them would be a wise move. But I would add the brands I've already mentioned. Part of my problem is my limited exposure to both amps and speakers. There are so many amps and speakers that I've never heard. And I don't live near any high end audio shops. The closest high end audio shop to me is a 4 hour drive. I'm just grateful that Mike opened his store for me so I could check out some of the best of the best. It did make my decision at least a little easier. It also made my weekend trip to Sarasota well worth the time and expense.
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August 3, 2021, 07:56 PM #265
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Re: Top Tier Amps
This post made me think about the components in my system. My Ayon CD player, my Ayon preamp, my Pass amp and my Volti speakers are the "entry level" models by these 3 manufacturers. The sound and build quality is most excellent, there is no buyers remorse here. Also, I feel pretty comfortable putting the entry level models by Fyne in this group also.
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August 3, 2021, 08:04 PM #266
Re: Top Tier Amps
I have not heard all the above amps but I have heard many of them and I would not trade any of them for my Chalice Audio 'Grail' SET monoblocks...The other owner of these amps would also not trade his either.He thinks they are not only the best tube amps but the 'best amps'..
Listening Room: 25' L x 18' W x 23' H..system on the long wall
Speakers: Tidal 'Contriva Diacera-SE
Amps: Chalice Audio 'Grail' SET mono blocks with Psvane WE 845 / 300b tubes
Source: Lumin X-1 Network Music Player
HighFidelity MC-1 Pro Helix conditioner
Cables:
Audience-Studio One RCA interconnect
SilverSmith 'Fidelium' speaker cables
Silent Source 'Music Reference' Power Cords x 3
Innuos 'PhoenixNet' Switch
CAD-CG-1
Audioquest 'fog lifters' under the Fidelium cables
Arya Audio-RevOpods under my Tidal Speakers
REL 212 SE Subwoofer x 2
Nordost V2 ethernet cable
EVP Isolation footers- subs-speakers- Lumin
Tweaks:
Stillpoints Ultra SS under amps
EVP HDR isolators 2" x 8...under my Lumin A1 and PSU
EVP HDR isolators 4" x 16..under my Tidal speakers and my REL 212 SE subs
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August 3, 2021, 08:17 PM #267
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Re: Top Tier Amps
I think for an amplifier to be rated as "top tier", the company that makes them also has to be top tier. i.e. still in business and providing excellent customer service.
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August 4, 2021, 07:50 PM #268
Re: Top Tier Amps
If you're talking about Chalice Audio and their 'Grail' monoblocks, they are still in business and will gladly make anyone a pair of their Grail amps or a pair of their soon to be finished 'Talisman' SET monoblocks.And by the way..the company's customer service is superb..By the way..how do you post a picture..?
Listening Room: 25' L x 18' W x 23' H..system on the long wall
Speakers: Tidal 'Contriva Diacera-SE
Amps: Chalice Audio 'Grail' SET mono blocks with Psvane WE 845 / 300b tubes
Source: Lumin X-1 Network Music Player
HighFidelity MC-1 Pro Helix conditioner
Cables:
Audience-Studio One RCA interconnect
SilverSmith 'Fidelium' speaker cables
Silent Source 'Music Reference' Power Cords x 3
Innuos 'PhoenixNet' Switch
CAD-CG-1
Audioquest 'fog lifters' under the Fidelium cables
Arya Audio-RevOpods under my Tidal Speakers
REL 212 SE Subwoofer x 2
Nordost V2 ethernet cable
EVP Isolation footers- subs-speakers- Lumin
Tweaks:
Stillpoints Ultra SS under amps
EVP HDR isolators 2" x 8...under my Lumin A1 and PSU
EVP HDR isolators 4" x 16..under my Tidal speakers and my REL 212 SE subs
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August 4, 2021, 07:57 PM #269
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August 4, 2021, 10:17 PM #270
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August 5, 2021, 12:34 PM #271
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Re: Top Tier Amps
Amplifier: Pass Labs INT 250 integrated.
DAC/Streamer: MSB Discrete Dual Power Supply.
Server: Roon Nucleus with lifetime subscription.
Speakers: Harbeth Super HL 5+ 40th Anniversary
Model.
Headphones/Amp: Focal Stellia phones, NAIM Uniti Atom Headphone Edition headphone amp/music player/server/streamer.
Cables: AudioQuest Rocket 88 speaker cables,
Mackenzie interconnects.
Speaker Stands: HiFi Man.
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August 5, 2021, 07:16 PM #272
Re: Top Tier Amps
....in the mail....."....How old are you???
Listening Room: 25' L x 18' W x 23' H..system on the long wall
Speakers: Tidal 'Contriva Diacera-SE
Amps: Chalice Audio 'Grail' SET mono blocks with Psvane WE 845 / 300b tubes
Source: Lumin X-1 Network Music Player
HighFidelity MC-1 Pro Helix conditioner
Cables:
Audience-Studio One RCA interconnect
SilverSmith 'Fidelium' speaker cables
Silent Source 'Music Reference' Power Cords x 3
Innuos 'PhoenixNet' Switch
CAD-CG-1
Audioquest 'fog lifters' under the Fidelium cables
Arya Audio-RevOpods under my Tidal Speakers
REL 212 SE Subwoofer x 2
Nordost V2 ethernet cable
EVP Isolation footers- subs-speakers- Lumin
Tweaks:
Stillpoints Ultra SS under amps
EVP HDR isolators 2" x 8...under my Lumin A1 and PSU
EVP HDR isolators 4" x 16..under my Tidal speakers and my REL 212 SE subs
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August 5, 2021, 07:21 PM #273
Re: Top Tier Amps
First of all..I didn't think you had to have a 'website' to be in business.If you do want to know more about the amps read Alan Goldfine's review of them in PFM.....Keep in mind, the amps he reviewed were the prototypes..The final product was significantly improved .
Listening Room: 25' L x 18' W x 23' H..system on the long wall
Speakers: Tidal 'Contriva Diacera-SE
Amps: Chalice Audio 'Grail' SET mono blocks with Psvane WE 845 / 300b tubes
Source: Lumin X-1 Network Music Player
HighFidelity MC-1 Pro Helix conditioner
Cables:
Audience-Studio One RCA interconnect
SilverSmith 'Fidelium' speaker cables
Silent Source 'Music Reference' Power Cords x 3
Innuos 'PhoenixNet' Switch
CAD-CG-1
Audioquest 'fog lifters' under the Fidelium cables
Arya Audio-RevOpods under my Tidal Speakers
REL 212 SE Subwoofer x 2
Nordost V2 ethernet cable
EVP Isolation footers- subs-speakers- Lumin
Tweaks:
Stillpoints Ultra SS under amps
EVP HDR isolators 2" x 8...under my Lumin A1 and PSU
EVP HDR isolators 4" x 16..under my Tidal speakers and my REL 212 SE subs
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August 6, 2021, 02:24 AM #274
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August 6, 2021, 03:06 AM #275
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August 6, 2021, 06:52 PM #276
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August 7, 2021, 12:33 AM #277
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August 7, 2021, 10:27 AM #278
- Join Date
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Re: Top Tier Amps
Strange thread.
I’m well satisfied with my “3rd tier” amps.Howard
Pass Labs XS 300's, XS Pre | Berkeley Audio Design Alpha DAC Reference Series 3, Alpha USB | Aurender W20SE, ACS10 | Magico S7's with MPOD's, QSub 15 x 2 | Shunyata Denali 2000T x 2 with Sigma HC | Audience aR6-TS Incoming... Shunyata Everest 8000 w/ Omega XC | MIT Heritage and Oracle Interconnects and speaker cables | Critical Mass Maxxum rack | Resolution Acoustics custom room treatments
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August 7, 2021, 01:10 PM #279
Re: Top Tier Amps
Marty
Aurender N20 / SonicTransporter i7 / Roon
MSB Premier
Constellation Inspiration Preamp 1.0 / Mono 1.0
Dynaudio Confidence 50 / SVS SB13 Ultra
PS Audio Powerplant 15
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August 7, 2021, 01:13 PM #280
Re: Top Tier Amps
My entire system will be Tier 3, so there you go. No, it’s not about sound, it’s about perception of the brand in the marketplace. Porsche or Ferrari is more highly regarded in the automotive world as top tier brands than Kia or Hyundai.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk ProMy 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.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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August 7, 2021, 01:26 PM #281
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August 8, 2021, 06:23 AM #282
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August 8, 2021, 09:23 PM #283
- Join Date
- Feb 2019
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- Southeast Iowa
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Re: Top Tier Amps
This is not aimed at anyone in particular. Unless the shoe fits. It does with me. Just an observation...it's interesting how some people are drawn to components made by one man, two man, or otherwise small shops often for no other reason than it's different. For some it's financial. I suspect some are drawn to obscure name components only because they are new and, well, obscure name components. Or, because they're the flavor of the month. It seems to be a psychological kind of phenomena, I don't know.
As I mentioned above, I've occasionally been guilty of this, with guitar amps, electric, and acoustic guitars, mandolins, and banjos. But, you have the larger companies that have researched, designed and built audio components often for decades, and spending thousands of dollars on R&D. And along comes a small shop that, all of a sudden, makes the greatest component ever designed and the best sounding piece of equipment ever, "hands down." OTOH, you might have a highly trained and experienced person that perhaps worked in a large corporation designing audio components and they've designed and built something truly remarkable in their one man shop.
I guess if there is any take home message to this rambling post it's...just because it's new and obscure doesn't necessarily equal good. It has to perform and compete successfully with any company, large or small. And that can be a pretty tall order. Especially if you have to compete against well established companies like Pass Labs, Luxman, Harbeth, Klipsch, Bowers and Wilkins, etc. OK, that is all. Like I said...just an observation.Amplifier: Pass Labs INT 250 integrated.
DAC/Streamer: MSB Discrete Dual Power Supply.
Server: Roon Nucleus with lifetime subscription.
Speakers: Harbeth Super HL 5+ 40th Anniversary
Model.
Headphones/Amp: Focal Stellia phones, NAIM Uniti Atom Headphone Edition headphone amp/music player/server/streamer.
Cables: AudioQuest Rocket 88 speaker cables,
Mackenzie interconnects.
Speaker Stands: HiFi Man.
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August 11, 2021, 08:31 AM #284
Re: Top Tier Amps
This is the closest thing I found:
Chalice Audio
104 Mt. Laurel Drive
Lynchburg, VA 24503
Phone: (434) 258-5278
web address: www.chaliceaudio.com
But the website no longer exists. I did not try calling them since I have no interest in their products, however if I were interested in their $80,000 amplifiers I would sure proceed with extreme caution.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
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August 11, 2021, 09:29 AM #285
Re: Top Tier Amps
2chl : Vincent Sp331MkII, W4S STP-SE Stage 2, Kef 201/2, KEF 140, Vapor Breeze, Lumin, Bryston CD, BHA-1, Quicksilver Headamp, HD650, HD800s, HD820's, Dan Clark 1.1, Focal Stellia, OPPO 203, 105. ( Boxed up: Pass Xa-30.5, VPI Classic, Dynavector DV-20XL, Manley Chinook, Cadenza Bronze)
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August 18, 2021, 01:58 PM #286
Re: Top Tier Amps
This thread is a source of bemusement to me. What really are the criteria for Tier placement?
- Shear performance?
- Subjective musicality?
- Potential longevity?
- Elegance of appearance or construction?
- Brand prestige?
- Resale value?
I suppose any of these could be Tier criteria but the relative weighting is going to vary hugely from person to person.
I'd love to have an amplifier that was high on all these criteria -- such as those suggested as some in the OP and various other postings. However for me the ain't going to happen. Accordingly I'm constrained to be select one or two of these potential criteria: for me they are performance, i.e. ultra-low distortion, stability, and sufficient power for my need. For now I'm content with my Purifi-based amp and consider it "Tier 1" in the category that matters to me.~ Bill
Win10/Foobar2000 => Topping D90 DAC => Sonic Frontiers Line 1 SE+ preamp => VTV Purifi 1ET400A stereo amp with Sparkos SS3602 op amps => Zaph Audio ZRT speakers (DIY) + PSB Subsonic 5 subwoofer
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August 18, 2021, 02:11 PM #287
Re: Top Tier Amps
All of the Above to be a top tier amp, so no Class D at any price will make the top tier category , as well as many others of course ...!
Regards* An Audiophile is only as old as his latest Class D incarnation *
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August 18, 2021, 02:23 PM #288
Re: Top Tier Amps
Well like I said, criteria for Tier inclusion is vary by person.
Some but not all class D amps are very high performance. So for instance Halcro is probably the lowest distortion amplifier in the world. Then again, detail, transparency, dynamics, and controlled bass aren't everyone's cup-of-tea.~ Bill
Win10/Foobar2000 => Topping D90 DAC => Sonic Frontiers Line 1 SE+ preamp => VTV Purifi 1ET400A stereo amp with Sparkos SS3602 op amps => Zaph Audio ZRT speakers (DIY) + PSB Subsonic 5 subwoofer
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August 18, 2021, 03:02 PM #289
Re: Top Tier Amps
Correct , just as Real, natural timbre and non hifi sound is not everyones cup of tea ..!
Sound preference is just one of the limited criteria for top Tier
Regards* An Audiophile is only as old as his latest Class D incarnation *
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August 18, 2021, 03:29 PM #290
Re: Top Tier Amps
Brand prestige. Not sure why so many people have a problem understanding it.
Ferrari - brand prestige
Kia - not so much
Not a commentary on the products as the Kia is likely more reliable than the Ferrari. But what has a higher brand prestige?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk ProMy 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.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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August 18, 2021, 03:31 PM #291
- Join Date
- Apr 2013
- Location
- Valrico, FL
- Posts
- 407
Re: Top Tier Amps
Howard
Pass Labs XS 300's, XS Pre | Berkeley Audio Design Alpha DAC Reference Series 3, Alpha USB | Aurender W20SE, ACS10 | Magico S7's with MPOD's, QSub 15 x 2 | Shunyata Denali 2000T x 2 with Sigma HC | Audience aR6-TS Incoming... Shunyata Everest 8000 w/ Omega XC | MIT Heritage and Oracle Interconnects and speaker cables | Critical Mass Maxxum rack | Resolution Acoustics custom room treatments
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August 18, 2021, 03:54 PM #292
Re: Top Tier Amps
~ Bill
Win10/Foobar2000 => Topping D90 DAC => Sonic Frontiers Line 1 SE+ preamp => VTV Purifi 1ET400A stereo amp with Sparkos SS3602 op amps => Zaph Audio ZRT speakers (DIY) + PSB Subsonic 5 subwoofer
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August 18, 2021, 09:53 PM #293
Re: Top Tier Amps
Anything Audio is a “personal “ thing ....!
Regards* An Audiophile is only as old as his latest Class D incarnation *
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August 18, 2021, 11:12 PM #294
- Join Date
- Jul 2015
- Location
- Golden, CO
- Posts
- 856
Re: Top Tier Amps
100% subjective! All that matters is how YOU like and enjoy the sound.
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August 19, 2021, 01:02 AM #295
- Join Date
- Jan 2019
- Location
- Singapore
- Posts
- 37
Re: Top Tier Amps
Agree with you Mike......it’s fairly easy to comprehend. The only thing I would add to that is the perception of prestige generally differs from people to people and region to region. For instance, Mercedes as a car brand is held as prestigious in Asia and more specifically Singapore but probably not so much in Germany where a Mercedes is a commonplace brand. Now I do caveat that statement by saying the top end Mercs to hold prestige value..... the same kind of holds true for audio to a large extent.
Hope it’s making sense....
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August 19, 2021, 08:22 AM #296
- Join Date
- Apr 2017
- Location
- Australia
- Posts
- 1,733
Re: Top Tier Amps
There is only one amplifier ever to be credited with the headline banner on Stereophile magazine "Best Amplifier Ever!".
Halcro.Speakers: Magico M3, ACC, S-SUB | Electronics: Esoteric Grandioso stack | Amplification: Halcro |
Analog cables: Crystal Cable | Digital cables: Shunyata Sigma | Rack: YG Acoustics Rack 1.8
| Source: Kaleidescape Premiere (4 x 6TB) | Power: Shunyata Typhon-QR, Everest and Denali
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August 19, 2021, 08:26 AM #297My 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.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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August 19, 2021, 08:30 AM #298
- Join Date
- Apr 2017
- Location
- Australia
- Posts
- 1,733
Re: Top Tier Amps
Nothing since then has earned similar acclaim on any mainstream audiophile magazine.
I've owned what was their top dog mono for 10 years. Then they went one better, and I had that on loan here for about a month. It doesn't really matter the price when you see no need to replace it after so long.Speakers: Magico M3, ACC, S-SUB | Electronics: Esoteric Grandioso stack | Amplification: Halcro |
Analog cables: Crystal Cable | Digital cables: Shunyata Sigma | Rack: YG Acoustics Rack 1.8
| Source: Kaleidescape Premiere (4 x 6TB) | Power: Shunyata Typhon-QR, Everest and Denali
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August 19, 2021, 08:33 AM #299
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August 19, 2021, 11:11 AM #300
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He’s a real vinyl lover! Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
Clarisys Audio Studio Plus Install...