Jeff Rowland

I called Rowland and they suggested going from my 525 to the
625, which is out of my price range. I'm curious if anyone
on Audiogon has done a direct comparison between the 525
with the Capri 2 preamp and the Continuum S2 Integrated amp?

Bill_k,
Thanks for the response. There is no doubt in my mind that the 625 mk2 will be a significant upgrade, but for now it's more than I can spend. I'm currently using a Bricasti M1 direct to the 525. I just added a pair of SVS SB 13 Ultra subs and was wondering if adding a preamp would provide better results...that's why I ask is adding a Capri 2 preamp or getting the Continuum S2 Integrated the best option? I'm biased also and will stay with Jeff Rowland amps. I really love the JR sound.

Zd542,

Any suggestions on preamps I should listen to? I had a Parasound JC2 BP and to my ears it degraded the sound when compared to the PS Audio DSD I had at the time. The Bricasti M1 sounds much better direct than the DSD.

I don't know if I need a preamp. I'm looking for the next step forward.

Onhwy61,
I have a clearly defined vision. I want better separation between instruments and better front to back placement of instruments.How to get there(what's my weakest link) and how much it's going to cost is the question? It may be time to investigate replacing my Aerial 7Ts!

Onhwy61,
I'm looking into speakers now. A few on my list are Joseph Audio Perspectives and Dynaudio C2s.

Zd542,
I've owned several amps and listened to several in different systems over the years(Parasound, Bryston, Peachtree, Bel Labs, Classe, Levinson). To my ears Jeff Rowland is one of the few amps that produces a 3d image and I'm very satisfied with the 525, especially for how much it cost.

"At this level, its not good enough to just pick components. In order to get what you are looking for in the above quote, you must consider at the whole system. One mismatched piece can ruin the systems ability to image properly." Okay, but in an earlier post you say "I'll start off with 2 recommendations. For solid state, I would look at an Ayre K-5, and for tubes, an Aesthetix Calypso. Those 2 pieces do everything right, and work well with a wide variety of components. Either should go very well with your Rowland."
My experience tells me that switching one component or cable for that matter can have a significant impact on the sound. Yes, it's a system, but each component can impact the overall signature of the sound. I'm looking for suggestions, but I'll let my ears and wallet decide.

Zd542,
My JR 525 replaced a Parasound A21. Prior to purchasing the 525, I had in my system, a Bryston 4bsst2, Ayre integrated, and a JR 125. To my ears and in my system the, with the exception of the bass, the Jeff Rowland 125 was the most musical. I decided to get the 525 based on my evaluation of the JR 125.

Zd542,
I know your not bashing...my point is that I "try" to evaluate components in my system. I continue to say, "there are no absolutes in audio only preferences."

Schacter,

Thanks for the feedback, although I feel my 525 could be better with musical nuance/detail and I'm actually happy with the dynamics. Do you still have the Continuum S2 or do you have the Spectron Musician? If you have the Spectron, how does it compare to the Continuum S2. Thanks!

Schacter,

Please describe the differences you hear between the 525 and Continuum S2...is there a night and day difference?

Guido,

My digital and balanced interconnect cables are Wireworld Platinum Series 7. My powercord and speaker cables are Wireworld Silver Series 7.

I've gone back and forth because I didn't think I would have the opportunity to compare everything. It looks like I may have the opportunity to compare my Bricasti M1 DAC/JR 525 combination to the Continuum S2 and Bridged 525s to the S2.

I know that upgrading the power amp, adding a line stage, and/or changing speakers can have a significant impact on the overall sound. I'm limited on what I want to spend; therefore I'm trying to figure out the best way to spend my money. I've ruled out changing my speakers or my DAC.

Guido, as always thanks so much for your input.

Thanks for the advice and good conversation...decision has
been made to purchase another 525 and use them bridged. I
will provide some feedback within several weeks.

Bombaywalla,

I take all advice with a grain of salt. Ultimately my ears
and wallet determines what I purchase.

I called Jeff Rowland several times and talked to them
regarding bridging the 525 to drive Aerial 7Ts. Per my
conversation with them, the 525 wouldn't have any problems.
I will follow-up on Monday to confirm bridged 525s can
drive the Aerial 7ts. They recommended the 625 mk2 as the
best option, but as already stated the 625 is out of my
price range.

I respect your opinion, but to insult my intelligence by
assuming I don't understand how bridged amplifiers work is
a little too much...I'm capable of reading..JR clearly
shows how the 525s are connected when bridged. Furthermore,
your assumption is I haven't compared bridged 525s to a
single 525. To my ears bridged 525s have more bass impact,
an ease to the music, and yes a more open soundstage. No it
wasn't with my speakers, but I should have the opportunity
to listen to bridged 525s in my system.

I don't know your experience with Jeff Rowland Class D
amplifiers, but if the recording allows, the 525 presents a
very good soundstage and separation, but just like many on
Audiogon, I want to go to the next level.

Finally, I enjoy Audiogon and post questions to provide
food for thought. That being said, I submit anyone that
purchases components simply on the advice of others is a
fool.

Bombaywalla,

When I post a question, I'm looking for feedback from individuals that have firsthand knowledge of the components in question. Yes, anyone can have an opinion based on their experience; however if you not familiar with any of the components in question, why on earth would I take your advice? To my knowledge, Guido and Schacter are the only individuals that have direct experience with the JR 525 and/or the JR Continuum S2. It's only logical to take in consideration what they say. Take in consideration, not do it because they say so.

To say I don't take advice when posting/asking a question isn't true. I recently had a conversation with a guy on Audiogon concerning subwoofers. My thought was to pursue JL Audio only. This individuals owns a JL Audio F112, SVS SB13 Ultra, and a Rythmik subwoofer. Based on his advice I went and listen to a SVS SB13 Ultra. In addition, I tried to listen to a Rythmik subwoofer, but they were less than accommodating. I ended up purchasing a pair of SVS SB13 Ultras. He had direct knowledge, I took his advice to listen. I used my ears and wallet to make the decision on what's best for my system.

No, I don't post every little detail about what I've done. I have listen to many speakers since I've had the Aerial 7Ts. If I had the money I would own Raidho C3.1s, they are the best speakers I've ever heard. After listening to many speakers I decided to keep the Aerial 7ts...not because they are perfect, but the cost to replace them is way more than I'm willing to spend.

I do have room treatment and have moved the position of the speakers several times. Prior to inserting my subs, I removed my bass traps, but found it sounds better with them in now that I have subs.

I appreciate everyone taking their valuable time to respond to my questions. When there are disagreements I submit we should remain cordial...it's only audio.

I posted on 6/3/15 that I would explore a couple of speakers...10 days later I posted "After listening to many speakers I decided to keep the Aerial 7ts...not because they are perfect, but the cost to replace them is way more than I'm willing to spend."

Bombaywalla,

I assure you I know the impedance of my speakers. In fact I'm 100% sure I told that to the individual that I spoke with when I contacted Jeff Rowland. I didn't say at what frequency it dipped below 4 ohms, but I did explain it went below 4 ohms...they put me on hold, returned to the phone and told me it wouldn't be a problem. I talked to a dealer ad he told me it wouldn't be a problem. I promise you I'm listening and that's why I stated I would call Jeff Rowland on Monday and confirm that bridged 525s don't present a danger went driving Aerial 7Ts. If they tell me something different I will let you know.

Thanks Al. I really like the sound and built quality of Jeff Rowland amps. The truth is I've been going back and forth, asking questions and talking to a close friend about how to improve my system within a given budget. Adding subs has taken my system to another level(not night and day), but worth the cost. Now I'm looking for modest gains, with modest cost...my amplifier is what I want to improve. I hear your concerns about bridging the 525s. Despite what I've been told, I have the same concerns. I will have one more conversation with Jeff Rowland.

I will ask the question and post my response tomorrow. If cost wasn't a consideration I would purchase the 625 mk2. If I had the opportunity to listen to bridged 525s in my system, I wouldn't have posted the question. I know one person that utilizes bridged 525s to drive Avalon Speakers and loves it.
Why not the Continuum S2 integrated. I had the opportunity to compare an Esoteric K01 to the Bricasti M1. Music through the M1 had more detail, more musical, and just natural sounding. Remember I had a Parasound JC2 preamp and preferred music without it. I prefer my money go to improving the amplifier, without adding a preamp. Now if I can't use bridged 525s or can't find a used 625 that has the most recent updates, I may need to look at other options.

I talked to Lucien(Jeff Rowland Group) today regarding bridging the 525 to drive Aerial 7ts. Per our conversation, he discussed the issue with Mr. Jeff Rowland and they agreed that bridged 525s would have no problem driving Aerial 7Ts. I asked him if it were him, what would he do? I was surprised that he answered my question! His answer, "if you're comparing one 525 to a Continuum S2, get the Continuum; however bridged 525s with a Capri S2 preamp will beat the Continuum S2 integrated amp.

Zd542,

Rowland actually mentioned vertical biamp as an option. I had a long talk with them and this is what I have decided. I'm going to get a Continuum S2 Integrated(home audition) and see if there is a big enough difference between it and a single 525(525 already for sale). My concern is a degradation of the sound through the line stage compared to the Bricasti M1. "IF" what I read is true the Continuum maybe the least complicated and most cost effective way forward. If I don't think the Continuum is a big enough difference, I will sell my 525 and look for a used/demo 625 mk1. I just want to reiterate I really like Jeff Rowland's sound.

I finally had the opportunity to compare the Continuum S2 to the M525 in my own system. I'm 100% sure going to purchase the Continuum S2.

Guido,
I appreciate you sharing you time and knowledge regarding Jeff Rowland products. My situation was difficult because I wanted to hear the S2 in my system, but didn't want to feel obligated to purchase from the dealer that could make it happen. I had to wait until a friend of a friend could help me out. It's funny how we hear different things, you said the S2 was clearly better, while others thought the S2 was only marginally better. I know I can enjoy music with the S2 and not think about my next purchase.

Guido,
I try hard to express my preferences while respecting other's points of view. Audio is definitely a preference, but not an absolute. I submit the M525 is great in a smaller system/room, but in my 20' x 26' room, combined with Aerial 7Ts the power and fidelity of the S2 is very obvious.
I submit the Bricasti M1 DAC is great, but knowing what I know now, if someone gave me a choice between having a PS DSD DAC with the JR Continuum S2 or Bricasti M1 DAC with the JR M525, I would take the former of the two. That speaks volumes to how good I think the Continuum S2 is compared to the M525.