Is the move up to Parasound Halo A21 worth it?


Currently enjoying my B&W CM10s, Parasound A23 and P5. I really love the balanced, open sound that I'm getting from the current setup. However, there are a few areas where I'm seeking improvement. A wider soundstage and more engaging sound at lower than moderate volumes. And, a bit more bass, at any volume, won't hurt either.

I thought of moving up the Parasound chain to an A21, but I have no way of listening to an A21 prior to buying it. Has anyone else here moved from a 23 to 21? If so, did you think the move was worth the extra $$$$? Very interested in knowing what improvements people heard. And yes, I understand that room acoustics and treatments will give you a better bang for your buck. But, unfortunately, my setup is in the family room with very little flexibility. So it is what it is.

On an unrelated note, I was thinking of buying used (couple of current A21 listings here @ agon), but after you take into account shipping and paypal charges, the diminishing returns kick in. I'm struggling to see if net savings of around $500 (over a new one from audio advisor) is worth losing warranty, as Parasound warranty is not transferable. I'm sure these are highly sought after units and the premium is better than other comparative brands, but for me it's not worth the risk. So, I'm now thinking of getting a new one from audio advisor (no tax, no shipping charges) and have the peace of mind that comes with a full warranty.
128x128arafiq

Showing 9 responses by jl35

I found it kind of bland or flat. More that I didn't like it as opposed to disliked it. If you're looking at integrateds too there are very many possibilities...I've been very happy with recent Simaudio products...
Yikes!!! I thought the 23 was a good value at $900, not so much the 21 at $2500    Clearly the A21 is a much better amp    I will try to call Mr. Curl later...  I liked to comparably priced Odysseys much better
Just not my preference. System sounded great with Odyssey, Thor and Pass amps. My point really is to not lay out $2500 for an amp because other people like it.
I like the A23, the JC-1, and many of the previous generation Parasound, just not the A21.
Odyssey Stratos with upgrades. I like the A23 for it's price, do not particularly care for the A21. 
Clearly John Curl is one of the greats, not sure that Parasound always produces the amps exactly as he designs them...
according yo Parasound, John Curl designed the circuits for both the A23 and A21...
I’ll take your word bigdady...Parasound used to say amp designed by John Curl but later changed it to circuitry designed by John Curl...what’s the story with that ? I had heard that was due to using lower quality parts than the original designs...true ?