T + A PA 2500R integrated amps. Opinions vs. others

J

jet787

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I am the process of consolidating my electronics. The integrated that has caught my eye is the T + A PA2500R. There are various reasons such as the phono pre amp, tone controls, higher current and the power ability into 4 and 2ohms. The other contenders would be the Luxman 509, Pass Labs 250 integrated, Accuphase E-470 or Gryphon Diablo 120 or others? I really don't want to exceed $15K and this limits my choice of the top line models unless I went perhaps the used route. Thoughts and opinions and comparisons would be appreciated!
 
Welcome to AS.

I haven't heard that model but the T+A I have heard, I liked. I've heard a fair amount of Pass and used to own some. Pass would be more to the warm lush side of T+A, no lack of power and drive capability.

Based on hearing the 300, the Gryphon should be a contender. Mike can tell you more how the 120 compares.

No experience with the other two.
 
There should be lots of experience on this forum regarding the above, what musical/audiophile priorities do you value? Speakers matter also.
 
Oly has an E-470 for sale here. I don't know Oly so I am removed on endorsement. Used price leaves room for other upgrades.

Someone had a used Diablo 300 for sale a while ago here and well under 15K.

I had the T+A in my system over a year ago and thought it was neutral but non-fatiguing. Didn't have the sparkle/twinkle of the T+A 3000.
 
My speakers are VA Liszt that are fairly efficient at 91db. I value an open, airy soundstage with an amp that deliver a quick transient response without being harsh or metalic. I listen to most styles of music including full orchestral pieces.
 
I took a leap of faith buying my T+A gear. It's not a well known name here in the U.S.. I'm thrilled with my setup. I think the brand offers exceptional quality at all price points. I don't think you'll ever regret a T+A purchase, unless of course you choose to sell the gear at some point. Because of it's lack of popularity, resale is somewhat challenging.
 
I have to agree here. T+A is exceptional equipment and from my understanding their reputation in Germany and Europe is very high. They are not as well known here in the states so selling a unit is much more of a challenge. Too bad because it is great gear.

For example, I have their little AMP 8 which is a great little amp. Typical of T+A, built like a bear and will definitely last for a very long time. I was trying to sell it because I recently have gotten into SET tube amplifiers and my fantastic T+A is just sitting here not being used. So far I have not had anyone decide to go for it. I have had a couple inquiries but no one has made the move yet. That does not bother me too much since it is a fantastic amp to have as a backup...
 
We'd reviewed T+A PA 2500 R and this is great integrated - with very transparent, but not clinical sound. One thing which is very important is burn-in time even after woke-up from stand by mode. It tooks minimum 45 min - "cold" 2500 lacks emotions.

ta_pa2500r-0007.jpg
 
I found the same with my AMP 8, but no so much so with the DAC 8 DSD. Certainly 5-10 minutes is warranted, but not as much as the amp. My SET amps take a while, 45-60 mins seems to be where there is a noticeable improvement.
 
jet787 said:
My speakers are VA Liszt that are fairly efficient at 91db. I value an open, airy soundstage with an amp that deliver a quick transient response without being harsh or metalic. I listen to most styles of music including full orchestral pieces.
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I have the Liszt as well . I replaced a Pass Labs INT150 integrated with T+A PA3000HV Integrated . The INT150 was very very enjoyable but the T+A is in a different world. As a note though the T+A was near 3 times the price of the PASS but it's so good I am thinking of replacing my separates located in another system with the T+A PA3100HV integrated
 
You'll LOVE the T+A PA3100HV. Take it from me, I've owned many. I feel, short of Soulution, you won't find better. Match it up with a MP3100HV. You'll be quite pleased...
 
Penthouse-D said:
You'll LOVE the T+A PA3100HV. Take it from me, I've owned many. I feel, short of Soulution, you won't find better. Match it up with a MP3100HV. You'll be quite pleased...
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I go to many Audio shows and Soulution always sets the standard . Just can't quite open my wallet that wide........
As I said I have the T+A PA3000HV in my second system using an integrated to minimize complexity. The results were so extraordinary I am thinking of selling my Aesthetix amp and VAC pre amp and getting the PA3100HV with optional power supply. It's no cheap ride as list for list $ it's the same as my separates but the performance speaks for itself. .
 
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