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Arcam P777 or Theta Intrepid

After weighing reviews, price, and designs, I have narrowed some multi-channel amp choices down to these two. I am looking used and spending @2500 tops, thus eliminating an Ayre V-6xe and Bryston 9BSST/SST2, which I was also considering. Also, I have a Bryston 2B-LP right not, and while I love its transients, bass, and control, I have always found it a bit harsh in the mids/uppers and really want to get away from that. I was considering an ATI amp, as well, but read some stuff that they might sound similar (It sucks not being able to listen to all this stuff myself!).

CAP has the Intrepid new for 1500, which seems like a stellar deal and to rank very high on the sound-for-money scale. Unfortunately, I cannot hear it locally and am going solely on reviews and having heard Ayre amps with a similar design (no global feedback and fully balanced). On paper, the Intrepid sounds like a truly hi-end design, perhaps just a little under powered, for a stupidly good price. I haven't heard the P777 either but have do currently have a C31 and CD36. I have heard Arcam amps in the past, only via their integrateds, and thought that they were not their strong suit, but this is obviously a much more powerful choice and dedicated design. I found them warm and nice but just not as detailed or spacious sounding. It also has the power and bi-amping my fronts capability advantage.

I will be running Vandersteen 2 Sigs, a VCC Sig, and VSMs in a 13x13x9 room. I also have a 2W to take some low end load off the 2s. I normally don't listen to movies all that loudly, honestly, and my focus is on music. I wanted to get some comments from people who might have heard both/either. Thanks!
jwseitz

Showing 4 responses by paraneer

paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
No problem Zydo. I like Arcam gear and I don't believe for one minute one amp can be 2 dimensional while another 3 or more. An amp can be more powerful, quieter, better S/N specs, damping factor, etc and all these specs can be measured. An amp can also be better built and parts, weight and construction can all be verified.

But to say one amp is 2 dimensional while another is not is pure subjective opinion that cannot be substantiated. Its not a spec - its a made up term. And from a salesman to boot! I really don't care if Bo prefers one brand over another. We all do. But I don't like anyone peddling their wares by slamming the competition and using make believe terms like 2 dimensional to do it. Not a good way to sell.

Makes me want to buy an Arcam.
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
Bo, this is the third brand you have mentioned in your posts as being 2 dimensional. You said the same about Denon and Marantz. Onkyo however is OK along with Theta. So I guess these must 3 dimensional. Maybe even 4.

I am curious if dimensionality is a specification or an opinion. If a specification, could you please tell me where i could find these specs? I looked at the Theta Intrepid manual and it gave values for the same specifications listed in the Arcam manual. Sorry, no mention of dimension. I thought I was familar with all the important specs that electronics should have, but this one eludes me. So I am beginning to think that this may be an opinion.

Could you please enlighten me as to what makes one brand 2 dimensional and another multi? I don't want to make the mistake of buying a 2 dimensional brand. BTW, I own Parasound so maybe I already made the mistake.
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
Well Zydo, there you have it. Arcam is still a 2 dimensional brand merely because Bo says so. As he says "it is very easy to let people hear the difference between 2 and 3 dimensional sound just by using the talents and properties of brands".

Now brands have talents too.

To the OP who posted the original question. Either the Theta or Arcam will do a fine job in your system. One amp is not more talented or dimensional than the other.
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
Guess you are referring to me Bo. Yes, I said that and hold by it. Please point to amplifier specs that measure and verify "talent" and dimensionality". If they exist, I will gladly say your right and retrack my statement to the OP.

Regarding your other statements..for one, I am certainly not deaf. Second, before you call someone stupid Bo, I suggest you learn how to spell the word. And other words too. Now you are really calling the kettle black. If you understand what this idiom means.

I think I'll continue to stay in this hobby Bo. I wish you lots of luck as an Audio Salesman.
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