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 2 responses by soix

soix
9,968 posts
 

I really do enjoy how my current set up sounds…I primarily listen to Tidal and to pop, electronic and some rap (no jazz or classical). Since this is my first "real" hi-fi set up, I don't have a clear picture as to which direction I want to go.

Given this I’d recommend sticking with what you have until you have time to go listen to other systems to identify what specific improvements you’d like to achieve.  At this point you’re just as likely to shoot yourself in the foot as you are to get significant improvements — in other words, it’d be a total crapshoot unless you can try an amp in your system at home first.  Just my $0.02 FWIW.

soix
9,968 posts
 

What specific improvements are you looking for?

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