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 hearthis

fleshler, thanks for your positive comments about the WestminsterLab Reis. The Sanders Magtech amplifier is superb, especially if high power is required. The Magtech was originally designed for use with electrostatics, given their need for high voltage on the rails (63v), yet it proved excellent for power-hungry speakers and sounded better than the standard model, given its novel regulated power supply. These amplifiers are highly recommended for high-power applications and offer that performance and build quality at an impressively low price.  

For accuracy, Roger Sanders and I were partners in Innersound, a company preceding Sanders Sound Systems. After Innersound, Roger founded SSS and was the sole owner at the time of our last conversation a few years back. 

PS We offer in-home evaluations for parties with a genuine interest in Westminsterlab Rei Class A monos in locals where there is no local dealer. Thanks again.