2. amps-preamps
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Parasound HCA-1200 II - What Is It?

I'm looking for a used amp in the $300-$500 range, that will power a pair of Polk LSi9s (4 ohms, 200wpc+ recommended). More or less down to Adcom GFA-555 vs. something from Parasound; leaning towards Parasound because of what I hear re: superior SQ. Particularly interested in HCA-1500A or Halo 23.

Anyway...I keep seeing a Parasound amp that's not listed on their site, not even under the Discontinued tab: HCA-1200 II. It looks like it's a John Curl design, and its wattage appears to be identical to the HCA-1500A (205wpc @ 8 ohms, 325wpc @ 4 ohms). So it looks like it's more or less the Parasound amp that I want - HCA-1500A - just with a different model name. It also sells for a little less than I would expect a 1500A to sell for.

Does anyone know what's up with the 1200 II? What is its design/release history? Is there some reason why it wouldn't be on the Parasound site? And if it's basically a HCA-1500, why didn't they just call it that? Is it a revision that maybe wasn't exactly an improvement? Why does it sell for $100-$200 less than one would expect an HCA-1500A (or even an HCA-1000A) to sell for?

A lot of questions, I know. Thanks for any replies.
bthogan

Showing 2 responses by timlub

timlub
2,043 posts
 
Sorry for not directly answering your question, I have heard the 1500, but not a 1200II. There is a Sumo Andromeda II on ebay right now on bids, should go for $500 or so. I personally would rather listen to this over any Adcom except maybe a 5802 and any Parasound under the 2200II... Its a touch on the cool side, but very smooth, detailed and very good bass.
I hope this helps, Tim
timlub
2,043 posts
 
Hi Bthogan,
The info that you posted above is for a Sumo Andromeda, It was a JB design. When Jim sold Sumo to Randy Patton, Randy Hired Jason Stoddard (Schiit Audio) Jason was responsible for the Andromeda II, a very different amp than the Andromeda. Andromeda was bipolar out, Andromeda II is mosfet. JB would not use mosfets at that time... I prefer Jims model Nine the best of all Sumo's but next to that I much prefer the Andromeda II or III over the original Andromeda that you referenced above.
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