2. amps-preamps
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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 uberwaltz

uberwaltz's avatar
uberwaltz
13,381 posts
 
@erik_squires
TBH, the Ayre ax-7e can be had for very little coin on the used market.
Yes it is no frills but a fully balanced design with 2 xlr and 2 rca inputs and a tape out.
Built like a tank and although only a claimed 60 wpc, they are HUGE ones.
Worth a test drive unless you want more frills, or a much newer unit.
I run my DAC into one of the xlr, my ph10 phono into the other xlr, my pioneer sacd into 1 rca and my nakamich cassette into the last rca.
I use the tape out to drive a Schiit Vali headphone amp.

I am very impressed.
uberwaltz's avatar
uberwaltz
13,381 posts
 
I recently removed a Lyngdorf 2170 from my system and replaced with an Ayre A7-XE which is a very affordable fully balanced integrated amp.
I have heard some say oh its only 60 watts it will never drive my speakers and I guess that could be true of some very inefficient speakers.
This change opened up my analog front ends ( vinyl and cassette) and really allowed them to shine both in mid to upper low bass and vocals, acoustic guitar and piano.

Right now I have never been as happy with my sq, this little Ayre most definitely rocks.
And I have yet to exceed 45 on the volume and that drove my Triangle Altea speakers to 95db spl
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