2. amps-preamps
  3. 190056-131362

Help me understand the current amp market

I've been doing some research in regards to amplifiers in hopes of purchasing one some time in the near future. However, it's difficult to navigate all the different models and what makes them exactly special. For starters, which amplifier manufacturers are actually coming up with innovative technologies and which ones are more "assemblers" of slightly modified parts? Pilium, for example, is getting a lot of buzz, but the CEO is an ex gym owner that's an audio enthusiast and not an electrical engineer. So what makes them stand out? Also, I'm seeing companies like Solution and Jeff Rowland using switched mode power supplies. Are these truly better than the traditional toroidal transformers? I understand that you need to listen to them to truly understand each amplifier's significance. However, since it's almost impossible to listen to all of them in the same environment, I'd like to narrow my selection by which ones technological sound good first. Any help would be appreciated.

jyaki

Showing 1 response by bruce19

bruce19
293 posts
 

@ghdprentice 

You need to think first about tube vs solid state… although some solid state, like the Pass XA series are very warm and tube like and visa versa Rogue.

Brands you should consider first and foremost are Pass (solid state) and Audio Research (tubed). Others, solid state: MacIntosh (tubed or solid state, heavy with midrange and bass… light on detail, look cool), Luxman (heavy on treble and bass… so detailed ( shy on midrange a consequently not musical), Krell (warm) Tubed: Conrad Johnson, VAC, Cary (really warm and musical).

Obviously there are others. Also lower tier NAD and Rotel.

I would read a lot and audition a couple key brands. They have house sounds… so in general they have the same kind of sound with gradual improvements over time… so listening to a current MacIntosh and Pass will give you a good idea of what you are in for with the brand.

Nice amp character summary, I am saving it for future reference! Possibly worthy of it’s own thread.

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