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Thread: E1X power amp
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January 30, 2022, 12:26 AM #1
- Join Date
- Nov 2013
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- St. Louis, MO, USA
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E1X power amp
I took an opportunity to listen to an E1X in my system this weekend. Same system as in signature, just took out the 532h and put the E1x init's place.
I was anxious to listen so didn't allow much time to sit and warm before playing something. I should clarify though this amp is already broken in by the owner. First observation this is an evolution from Bel Canto I've heard in the past. Maybe going from ICE to Ngore, or maybe just a different voicing from the company.
If the E1X was in a blind test with other Class A/B amps I wouldn't have been able to pick it out as the one that was the Class D. It just doesn't have the stereotype sound I've come to expect from Class D. The E1X was very easy to listen to. As I listened I noticed the E1X has an amazing control over every aspect of the sound, it locks on the rhythm and/or melody and let's the music flow. Piano and strings were nice. The E1X was able to play low and exhibited constant control at very low bass regions. Along with the control the amp was quick.
My 532h retailed at $8500.00 before it's discontinuation. The E1x is $6k. Some comparisons, only as it may help give a feel for the E1X more. I felt the 532h was more organic in it's presentation overall, it was better on brass and things like separating multiple vocals. However, the E1X with the control I mentioned was able to sort out complex music and allow you to hear every detail, and, I do not mean in an analytical way, you will hear what is going on with no overlap or smearing at all. At times I got a sense that some highs, like cymbals were some recessed by comparison, some may prefer that. Cymbals were lighter on the E1X, where the 532h really renders that metallic clash. Again, just a difference that would come to preference.
The 532h is more visceral, maybe due to the higher power, remember the cymbal clashes, and, also the 532h pressurizes the room more.
I have a wide range of musical taste so I threw everything at the E1X, from Nashville Chamber Orchestra and acoustic Jazz to even some Sepultura . It seemed to do it all well. I will say though on some recordings I loved how the E1X reproduced piano.
The two amps have differences but I felt it wasn't that one is clearly better than the other, it would more come down to which flavor do you prefer. The E1X is a good performer, better than I expected. It would be interesting to hear it with the matching preamp/DAC.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
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AudioShark forum is a leading forum site for High End Audio Discussion, Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater System Discussion, Best Home Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater Installation Discussion etc.
The AudioShark forum was created for sharing the passion of high-end Audio. We have Audiophiles from all over the world participating and sharing their knowledge. From novice to experts, you will find a friendly environment for discussing about High End Audio, Stereo System, Home Theater System, Home Stereo System, Home Theater Installation, Amplifiers, Speakers, Subwoofers, Integrated System, Acoustic treatments & Digital Room Corrections and many more.
At AudioShark, we also have incorporated an exciting Marketplace where members can peruse terrific buys on used gear, as well as meet dealers and discuss the purchase of new gear.
We are as crazy about this hobby as you are! So come on in and join us! Audioshark.org the Friendliest Audio Forum!
Industry Participation Disclosure : The owner and administrator of Audioshark is the owner of Suncoast Audio LLC in Sarasota Florida. Suncoast Audio has a full brick and mortar presence in Sarasota with several great show rooms with many world class brands. More information can be found at http://www.suncoastaudio.com
Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.
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You should ask your dealer to bring the CH stuff he wants to sell you for home audition in your system. IMO there is no way to tell what will sound better in your system.
MSB Reference vs CH C1.2