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Improving on Classic Amps


Not for any good reason other than I am an audiophile, I have been thinking about changing my amp and preamp and would appreciate any suggestions.

As you can see from my system link, I have an Audio Research SP 11 and a Levinson 23.5.

In an ideal world, I would actively biamp or triamp and might even keep both, but that would run up the bill pretty quickly.

As both the SP 11 and the 23.5 command a cult classic premium on the used market, I am wondering if I might get better sound out of my Tympanis for +/- the same price and/or not so much more invested in the system.

SP-7 and Bryston monoblocks? Entry level LAMM? Parasound JC-1s?

I would rather not have anything too tweaky or garage built, but would otherwise consider trading the cult status of my amp and preamp for better performance.

If possible....

Thank You
cwlondon

Showing 3 responses by cwlondon

cwlondon OP
1,210 posts
 
Guidocorona

Hmmm....thank you and interesting points, but not so sure about these digital amps... Why so many for sale and at such discounts?

Jaybo

Thank you - on reflection, I guess I don't want to end up on the which component do you you most regret selling thread....

Of course, it is fun to change systems once in a while!

My other thought was Pass Labs....but yes, maybe the cult status of what I already have is deserved.
cwlondon OP
1,210 posts
 
Thanks Guidocorona for clarification - from Wikipedia

"The letter D used to designate this amplifier class is simply the next letter after C, and does not stand for digital. Class D and Class E amplifiers are sometimes mistakenly described as "digital" because the output waveform superficially resembles a pulse-train of digital symbols, but a Class D amplifier merely converts an input waveform into a continuously pulse-width modulated (square wave) analog signal. (A digital waveform would be pulse-code modulated.)"

Naturally, as an audiophile, I am inclined to believe that any amplifier which is heavier, runs hotter and/or has dangerously sharp edges probably sounds better.

Also from Wikipedia:

"Class D amplifiers for driving subwoofers are relatively inexpensive, in comparison to Class AB amplifiers.

A 1000 watt Class D subwoofer amplifier that can operate at about 80% to 95% efficiency costs about $250 USD, much less than a Class AB amplifier of this power, which would cost several thousand dollars."

This second point might also explain some skepticism, heavy hype and promotion from certain manufacturers and the rapid fall in resale values for some.

Old school Class A amps seem to retain their value pretty well.
cwlondon OP
1,210 posts
 
mrtennis thank you will take a look at the CJ stuff...

Bbro, yes that makes a lot of sense....in fact the factory recently told me that they use both Bryston amps and crossovers for testing and evaluation.

Combined with the fact that many Magneplanar users say that you haven't lived until you biamp makes me very curious.

Of course bimaping or triamping with world class gear could get pricey pretty quickly.

Can anyone comment on their experiences with vintage tubes and any of the larger Magneplanars?
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