2. amps-preamps
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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 4 responses by guidocorona

guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Timpanis being low impedance and current hungry creatures, why not try some high quality class D amplification in a balanced configuration: Rowland Continuum 500 if you want to try the integrated root. . . else, Bel canto Ref 1000 Mk.2 monoblocks + a Rowland Capri pre. I am using the Capri in my system, and I have heard the new Bel Cantos at some length at the last RMAF and was quite impressed by their musicality and finesse. Your Timpanis are likely to love the control yielded by some class D amps with damping factors of 1000 and peak currents often exceeding 40Amps. . . and you will love their cool operation and significantly lowered energy bills. G.
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Cwlondon, actually class D amps are analog devices. . . the "D" is just a counter, like in A B [C] D. . . problem is that I have no idea where class C amps have gone (snickers!)
As for them being heavily discounted. . . some are, while some brands/models definitely are not. Yet, I do understand your natural mistrust for the diminutive. . . . I used to suffer of the same problem. . . and perhaps I still share some of it. . .after all, my JRDG 312 does weigh a hefty 80 Lbs. . . is this perhaps the reason why there are so few of them on Agon? (grins!)
As far as I know, the latest Levinson flagship runs in class D.
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Thank you Al for solving the 'Great class C Caper'!

Cwlondon, like all other types of amps, class D range from 'bargain basement' prices like the subwoofer amps you mentioned, to the stratospheric. For example: Flying Moles used to be under $1K, Bel Canto Ref 1000 Mk.2 $6K, JRDG Continuum 500 $8.8K, JRDG 312 at approx 16.5K, Spectron monos with all the trimmings at $22K, JRDG 301 monos approx $30K, Levinson flagship (forgot model) in $50K range if memory serves. Interestingly, class D amps are somewhat less heavily advertised than other kinds. . . their growing popularity appears to be more of a word-of-mouth phenomenon.
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Hi BBRO, could you elaborate on your experience with Spectron and CJ, and contrast eaches sonic merits? Thanks, G.
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