2. amps-preamps
  3. 137240-20253

Ayre <--> Parasound <--> Pass : where are you?

I’ve been thinking a little bit about three different types of SS amplifier sounds. I’m not really sure what to call them, but I have a definite preference. Here is the spectrum in my mind:

Ayre <--> Parasound <--> Pass 

On the one hand is Ayre and Arcam. Yeah, fight me, but there are big similarities to the sound. I also loved the Pono and what it did for my IEMs, using the Ayre designed output stage. I wish Fiio would license it too.

In the middle is Parasound Halo and ICEpower Class D modules (I’ve owned both) which to me are identical in sound quality. Clearly I’m happy with them for the price!

On the opposite end of the spectrum is Pass. A sound I really don’t like.

But regardless of which you like, what do you think the differences are?

What spectrum do you use to think about solid state amplifiers??
erik_squires

Showing 2 responses by auxinput

auxinput
2,921 posts
 

I have recently entered direct experience with Parasound amps.  They are very very good.  However, stock, they are definitely a tiny bit on the thin side and somewhat lacking in resolution (to my expectations).  They are VERY refined and smooth, however.  The problem with Parasound is that they fuse the heck out of everything inside. 


The A21 as 5 fuses total:

1 x 15A main fuse

4 x 8A post transformer fuses


JC1s have 7 fuses total:

1 x 12A main fuse

2 x 12A post transformer amp fuse

2 x 1A post transformer driver board fuse

2 x 1A (small) post regulator driver board fuse


Once I upgraded everything to Furutech fuses (my standard), it really resolved the initial "lacking" characteristics.

I have read that the smaller A23 is not even in the same league as A21.  Not sure about this.  Could be the smaller power supply, but it still has at least 5 fuses.

auxinput
2,921 posts
 
I totally agree with helomech's opinion of Class D lacking soul (or air, if you will).  If you can't hear the difference between Class D and Parasound A23, it could be something else in your system that is limiting the resolution (such as speaker, or source, or cables).
More to discover