2. amps-preamps
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high-end vs. ultra high-end amplifiers

It is quite frustrating to know that some amplifiers (Boulder, FM Acoustics, Accuphase) are sounding better than even very expensive ones from the big boys (Mark Levinson, Krell, Bryston, Spectral). I wonder why there is such a difference. Madrigal, Krell, Bryston, Spectral, they all belong to the high-end sector of audio industry and they are claiming they are making the best amplifiers. But I know that this is not true: I've heard amplifiers from Boulder and FM Acoustics and they sound just better than the Madrigals, Krells and so on. Is it because Boulder and FM Acoustics have more know how about amplifier design (I suppose not) or do they use more expensive parts and better circuit topologies? Do they have brighter technicians and designers? There must be an explanation for this phenomenon. It isn't magic! Maybe someone from the audio industry can reply to this thread.
dazzdax
gregm
3,405 posts
 
Brian, thanks for your kind message. In fact, I just didn't want to sound adamant & use the word "obviously". Cheers!
kirian1
6 posts
 
Dazzdax, do you really believe that music reproduction with the chaotic variables concerned is directly related to the price of the high end products? I have come to the conclusion that these are loosely related at best. Are you also convinced that the higher end manufacturers you mentioned, justify the price their products because they know that theirs play better than the others? Thanks
theresa
5 posts
 
For the most part, I believe you get what you pay for. However, I certainly will concede that most likely you will pay more for a brand name than a no-name of near or same quality.

Name implies quality, support and resale value more so than no-names (most of the time.)

I think it's important to consider resale when you buy. Should you not like your purchase or want to move up into a higher line, you will re-sell a brand name quicker than a no-name.

Also, the newer into high-end one is the more reliance should be given to brand name. Unless you are omniscient audiophile, I believe you should stick to brand names.

Only my opinion.....
dazzdax OP
599 posts
 
Hi Kirian,

While the so called high-end amplifiers are sounding quite nice, I think the most natural sound comes from the very expensive ones (from the ultra high-end companies like Boulder, FM Acoustics and Accuphase). I know that these amplifiers might be too expensive, but it is difficult to specify a price for such devices, which are capable of giving a very realistic impression of sound as in real life.
I just wonder if the top high-end manufacturers like Krell and Mark Levinson are able to make their amplifiers sound as beautiful as those from Boulder. Maybe, maybe not.

dazzdax
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