I've owned the Continuum 500 integrated (with phono cards) for two-weeks now. It's like two 501s, a Capri and two PC-1 Power Correction Modules in one gorgeous box. Looks like a Concerto integrated that's 1.5" taller and with a curved faceplate. I've also listened to the 102, 201s, 501s and 312s, driving various speakers, mostly Vienna Acoustic, but also DALIs. (I own VA Beethoven Baby Grands).
This is an incredible amplifier, but I wouldn't advise it to anyone seeking a "warm" sound. Here are some adjectives that I'd use:
Absolutely neutral
Transparent
Incredibly quiet
Exceedingly dynamic
Stress free
Gloriously beautiful
Built like a tank
Demands excellent sources
Warm, NOT
Cool, NOT
Accurate, YES
The Continuum is available right now. Soundings in Denver has a demo unit in their big room. Strangely, they're selling like Wonder Bread in Asia already. Unfortunately, Jeff hasn't had time to update his site.
Oh, as I've listened to the 501s, 201s and 312, none of them struck me as "warm." When I hear an amp that free of stress and effortless in sound productions I think "sweet", not "warm." Maybe someone here that's owned both generations can comment better.
Dave
This is an incredible amplifier, but I wouldn't advise it to anyone seeking a "warm" sound. Here are some adjectives that I'd use:
Absolutely neutral
Transparent
Incredibly quiet
Exceedingly dynamic
Stress free
Gloriously beautiful
Built like a tank
Demands excellent sources
Warm, NOT
Cool, NOT
Accurate, YES
The Continuum is available right now. Soundings in Denver has a demo unit in their big room. Strangely, they're selling like Wonder Bread in Asia already. Unfortunately, Jeff hasn't had time to update his site.
Oh, as I've listened to the 501s, 201s and 312, none of them struck me as "warm." When I hear an amp that free of stress and effortless in sound productions I think "sweet", not "warm." Maybe someone here that's owned both generations can comment better.
Dave