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Emotiva XPA-5 vs. Parasound A51?

I can get a brand new Emotiva XPA-5 for $850, OR, I can get a used Parasound A51 (without warranty) for $2,200.

Without listening to these amps, I am having a very hard time justifying paying almost 3x more for the used Parasound that just offers 50 watts of additional power per channel, which I frankly don't think I need.

Powering B&W 804s as the main speakers. Upgrading to a B&W center channel, and thinking about using Emotiva for the in-ceiling surrounds.

Will spend time 50/50 for music / movies.

Thanks.
aman4kr4

Showing 2 responses by runnin

runnin
397 posts
 
Glad to help out, let us know your impressions on the new amp.
runnin
397 posts
 
I've had amps from both companies and concur with the superior midrange/highs detail. Also, the Parasound doesn't have the glare or harsh highs at upper volumes that the Emotiva did with my speakers, I actually got repeatable sibilance.

If the 804's are a forward sounding speaker, and I've heard some B&W products are, it might be a bad mix. Only one way to be sure, but be aware that if you want to return the Emotiva you will lose the shipping costs of a 100 or so.
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