I run the A21 with a pair of Wilson Sophia 2 speakers and I have never for a moment found myself wishing for more. The raw power of the amp complements the dynamic punch of the loudspeakers very well, with a full bottom end, palpable mid-band, and crystal highs. Years ago when I bought the Parasound unit I was listening to other models at local hifi shops, like Rotel, Yamaha, Bryston (oh, how I loved the 4B SS2), and some pricey equipment from Balanced Audio Technology (...sweet stuff...). I really appreciate how effortlessly the A21 performs, letting you pick out singular instruments in detail amidst a layered, complex passage of a recording. Working with some other amplifiers I've also learned to respect the A21's apparent immunity to hum introduced by AC line noise. The transformers in my other home-theater amp sing like birds when certain household devices are running... You may buy one and later fall in love with something else, but you will still feel like you got more than you paid for!
Opinions on Parasound A21 & A21+
I have been informed that the sonics of both the older and new Parasound A21s are very similar. I have never heard a Parasound product, let alone this model. Forgetting for this moment system synergy, how good do you rate is this amplifier? In basic sound character, is it a smooth operator with a non grainy, non fatiguing signature, that with proper systems matching will throw a 3d soundstage? Is it the entry-way to a high end, high power amplifier? Please feel free to provide any down sides to this amplifier. Last, what other amplifiers new or used in this $2,500-$3,100 price range would you consider? I will mention that I generally hold onto my amplifiers for a long while so I prefer to buy new.
I have scoured and read many prior posts on this subject, but would just like some current opinions. Thanks in advance.
I have scoured and read many prior posts on this subject, but would just like some current opinions. Thanks in advance.