Should an amp have a "personality"?


I currently have a SimAudio W-7 amp.  If there is a word to describe its sound, it would be NEUTRALITY precisely capitalized.  I mean it is neutral to a fault.  It's NOT warm, or bright, or analytical, or sweet, or anything that might be misconstrued as a personality.  It's just "IS".  It has nothing that would offend me but nothing that is endearing either.  I suppose some people may like this type of sound.  I also have another SimAudio Moon W-3 amp, and although it is neutral, but it has a distinct personality of being slightly forward, slightly upfront and ultimately more interesting to listen to.  

At this point, I am a bit disappointed what the W7 is not "FOR".  I want its sound to be FOR something be it slightly warm, or forward, or a touch bright or something that is a bit interesting even if it is a flaw.  It's like a politician who wouldn't say he's for something at the risk of offending his potential voters.  

PASS Labs amps are known to be a bit warm in the bass along with all their class A type of sound just as tube amps but they somehow make music sings.  
andy2

Showing 3 responses by millercarbon

Wanted to play some music last night but my amp was reticent.
Pushed, it started pulling. Push pull. Push pull.
Was about to unplug when a thunderous "NO!" came from the speakers.
With authority. Presence. Never heard it so forward before. My ears were ringing. Or was it the tubes? Sliding damper on, I could swear the amp began to hum. With pleasure. Liquid. Not syrupy, silky. Silky smooth. Yet at the same time, exciting. I slid another damper over a tube. This time, input tube. All the way. Really silky liquid now.

It runs hot and cold a bit, but I think I may be in love with my amp.
Well my amp is for listening. When asked though it says its for music. Are you looking for one with an even stronger personality? Forward, upfront and ultimately more interesting to listen to? One amp to trump them all?