Audio Research D240 mkll vs Adcom GFA-555


Hey Folks, I currently have a modified Adcom GFA-555 but have the opportunity to purchase an Audio Research D240mkll. Will there be a significant increase in sound quality? Speakers are Sonus faber Chameleon B's and source is Tidal through a Project Pre Box S2 Digital (as preamp).
ratboysr

Showing 1 response by hifiman5

I have a modded 555 as my back-up amp.  When I sent my McCormack DNA-1 to SMc Audio for a rebuilt I pulled out the Adcom.  I allowed it several days of burn-in since it had been boxed for several years.  Upon listening, I tried to like what I was hearing as it would be over a month till I received my 1st string amp. back.  Unfortunately its performance was so inferior to what I was used to that I shut down the system and listened through my Shure 535 in ear phones to music on my computer via Spotify.  The music came to life more through this mid-fi set-up than through using the Adcom with my system.  

I take no pleasure in expressing my disappointment with the Adcom.  Many years ago, with a much less resolved system its performance was satisfying.  This experience is testimony to how much better modern gear designs are.  Just taking into account the advancement in resistors, capacitors, transistors etc. etc.