Any comments on the T+A PA 2000 R integrated amplifier?


I own the Musical Fidelity M6si integrated amp and like it very much. My friend owns a T & A amp and ‘strongly’ recommends I consider upgrading my amp to the T+A Elektroakustik PA 2000 R Integrated Amplifier. My source is the Indigo IS-1 Streamer, Bricasti M21 DAC and PMC Twenty5.1 speakers.

Obviously, this is an expensive upgrade, so I am thinking about it. My retailer says “the Musical Fidelity is darned good. However, he also said the T+A should sound a bit more refined and even a bit richer and smoother".

My sense is the M6si is a fantastic performer at its price point, offering a balanced and engaging sound. However, it seems, the T & A PA 2000 R amp might have better resolution, smoother highs, and superior control over dynamics. Since I am looking for a more luxurious and emotionally engaging sound, the T+A is might be a worthy upgrade (maybe?).

There is a pre-owned T+A PA 2000 R integrated amplifier on Audiogon listed for $5,250. Do you have any thoughts? Thanks…

hgeifman

Just because it may sound somewhat better doesn't mean it will be more emotionally engaging.  You'll only know if you swap them out and listen.

Is there solid factory/distributor support for the T&A where you live?

@hgeifman 

I think I can help. I used to own the R2000. If the listing is from Perotta consulting, that was the integrated I traded in for the T+A PA 3100 HV model. 

The R2000 is very smooth and a bit on the warm side of neutral. I bought it new and only traded up because I was needing a bit more power on the large scale symphonic music I sometimes listen to. On everyday listening, it lacked for nothing. 

Quick story: I took it to my local dealer to audition speakers I ended up purchasing. I wanted to make sure it could drive them well. He hadn’t heard any T+A gear before. He was mightily impressed and started inquiring about carrying the brand. Sound quality, build quality and company reputation are all first rate. 

I’ve not heard a lot of Musical Fidelity gear, but what I’ve heard was a bit on the bright side.  Based on memory, the T+A will likely sound more refined, smoother and warmer. If it has enough power for you, jump on it.

Hope this helps.

Curious -- is your friend a good enough friend to bring his amp over for you to try it out in your system?  Seems that would give you a solid answer.

I would not base your decision on one person’s experience with a single piece of gear. If you genuinely want to upgrade, do some homework and find the best solution for your ears and system. 

@mlsstl

Thanks. A great suggestion but my friend lives 2,400 miles away.

@zlone

Thanks and I agree. I have been researching amps for a while and the T & A amp is at the top of my list. Unfortunately, my nearest retailer is about 400 miles away. I plan to visit him when time permits.

@hgeifman 

I believe you have the right idea. T+A offers great circuit engineering whose Sonic’s punch above their price points.  Great Sonic products, but whether you”ll like comes down to personal “subjective” sonic preferences and maybe speaker matching.