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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
chumsusi's avatar
chumsusi
26 posts
 
Hi,

Since you have the efficient speakers, you might want to consider Line Magnetic integrated amplifiers like LM 518ia or even LM 219ia. I owned Primaluna Dialogue Premium Integrated amp for over two years and enjoyed it very much. However, I switched to LM 218ia with very little hesitation once I got a chance to audition their products. 

The Dialogue Premium is a great amp but LM 518ia is a beast. LM products also have the LM 211ia and LM 216ia which use EL34 tubes and KT88 tubes like the Dialogue. You might want to read some reviews on the LM products.

Again, I am only giving you my opinion for your consideration. I hope you find a match amp for your system.

Binh
jmac7's avatar
jmac7
56 posts
 
I second the Line Magnetics 508IA. I have been through several amps including a Prima Luna and the LM is the best sounding amp that I have ever used. Of course, this is to my ears,and in my system.
blotto's avatar
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blotto
13 posts
 
I have both Parasound and Primaluna units...The PL is the current Dialogue Premium HP configuration--Well built and for sale ...
Less than 65 hours use use....
abd1
156 posts
 
I recently acquired a PrimaLuna Dialogue 1. Had been using a Peachtree Nova 220se which i love and still have. That being said there's things the PL can do that the PT can't. I've tried KT120 and KT88 tubes, plus the stock EL34s. So far I prefer the KT88s. I also have a system of mostly emotiva stuff including an XPA-2 and XMC-1. I'm going to move the PL into that system just to see how it compares to the emo stuff. I recommend picking up a PL amp or integrated. They have good resale and you can sometimes find something used. I'm loving my PL right now. 
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
@whacky:  In your initial post you stated this:

"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."

I just re-read your thread to re-familiarize myself.

Your statement above makes me wonder if a Tubed Preamp might be a better fit? Just a thought. Curious if others might agree.

Or a Tubed Amplifier driven direct by your Mytek Brooklyn DAC?



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