2. amps-preamps
  3. 129995-98156

Parasound vs Primaluna vs Alternatives

I realize this is comparing two different types of amps, but thats kinda the idea here.

I currently own a Parasound A31 which powers my front left, center, and front right channels. 


However I am only currently concerned and focused on 2 channel stereo listening when it comes to this decision. 

Basically, I would love to delve into the tube world (tube rolling appeals to me) and I have read nothing but good reviews on Primaluna products.

I do a lot of listening of both vinyl via my soon-to-be-replaced Project debut carbon with AT440MLa MM cartridge, as well as digital via Audirvana, Tidal, and tons of DSD files from my Mac Mini.

Everything runs from either a Mac Mini or turntable into a Brooklyn DAC which outputs to Marantz 7702 in Pure Direct mode to current Parasound A31. 

Current Loudspeakers are Tekton Double Impacts. 


Basically, I am very curious about what would really change by switching the Parasound for something like a well respected tube amp like the Primaluna Dialogue HP? Ideally I would love something that would increase my sound stage and provide as holographic and precise an image as possible. Absolutely love closing my eyes and feeling the exact space of the recording. 


Thoughts and suggestions all appreciated. 

Thanks

128x128whacky

Showing 3 responses by whacky

whacky's avatar
whacky OP
53 posts
 
I guess I initially convinced myself I needed to run it out from the Brooklyn to the marantz to keep that as the center hub for everything from stereo listening to home theater use with downloaded Dolby digital or DTS movies with encoded sound via optical or hdmi. 

But now that you've said that, I could just bypass the marantz for stereo listening. Easy enough. I'll Give it a whirl.  Only lost feature would be the volume control via the marantz. 

Little bonus....can now run balanced out from the Brooklyn to the  Parasound. 


Still doesnt necessarily give me a good idea of the difference between the Parasound and a solid Tube amp like the Primaluna with my setup, which is the burning curiosity. 
whacky's avatar
whacky OP
53 posts
 
Appreciate the input. 

I'll have to delve in the Double Impact thread. See what I can see. 

So far I am loving these loudspeakers. They've opened up a world of new musical interest for me. But now that voice in the back of my head is definitely telling me the tube route is the way based on my experience with the speakers.  

I definitely like the appeal of an easy to own and modify amp like the an autobiasing Primaluna. Try different tubes with ease. But anything in the ~$4K range will be strongly considered as well. 


Also, side note from above. Connected the Brooklyn DAC directly to the parasound via balanced connection, hence bypassing my Marantz, and the sound appreciably improved. Noticeable improvement in clarity and air. Love it.  


whacky's avatar
whacky OP
53 posts
 
So I found a solid deal on a Primaluna Dialogue HP integrated. 
Currently is loaded up with all stock tubes. Although I ordered some Cifte 12au7 tubes to play with as well.

Picking it up tomorrow. 

Very much looking forward to performing some A/B comparisons between that and the Parasound A31 on my Double Impact speakers.  

Will report back after I spend some serious time playing around and listening. 
More to discover