Comparison of Arcam A85 & Primare A30.1 ??

Thimmy118 -
Thanks for the posting, it is very helpful. I'm hearing good things about the Primare (the closest dealer to Boston is Philadelphia, whew)and I certainly get the feeling that the Primare A30.1 and maybe the Moon I-5 are a good step up from the Arcam A85 and its comtemporaries like the Creek 5350SE. I have auditioned the Moon and if the Primare is in that league and about $400 less, throw in the great looks to keep the wife happy, I'm very impressed.

Yes Thim,
It is all good fun, with a bit of work thrown in.
The Moon I-5 sounded so nice that I went with it. I'm very impressed, it has the 1st 5 watts as class A, then the rest is class A/B. The 70w per channel is enough to power the Totems with no problem (sensitivity 86db). I heard a pair of Dynaudio at my dealer, I think the Confidence C2, they were 4-5 feet tall and were very impressive, really extended high-end.
The Moon is built like a tank and very attractive, as is the Primare. The sound is clean, alive and musical. Bass is solid and tight, mids and highs are smooth clear and detailed, with great imaging. A new unit will get you a 10 year warranty. I was able to get a great deal on Audiogon on this 2 year old unit, so no prolonged break-in for me. Sounds like the Primare & Moon share some qualities, such as being vivid & alive. Vocals are hauntingly real. I went from a 10 year old Hafler power amp & preamp straight to this and the difference was startling. The Moon brings out the full potential in my Totem Hawks.

Electronics & cables can show a difference, so the dealer was right about that. I feel a quality amp can show a weak spot in a system, so I got new interconnects and speaker cable (without getting crazy & spending a lot).

As my system moves up in class I see I can't cut corners anywhere. Part of the fun right ?

Thanks,
Carmine

Bhfv -

I never heard the Primare because I would have to go to Phila from Boston to listen. I bought the Moon i-5 because it was too tempting. I love it, class all the way.

I believe the Primare a30.1 lists for about $2295, where the Moon is now $2600 or so.

I'd be curious for your opinion between the 2 once you hear the Primare.

Thanks !!