2. amps-preamps
  3. 1145573866

SimAudio or Classe for Power Amplifier

As I continue to upgrade my system I am looking at the amplifier as the next component on the hit list.

My current system:
- Marantz SA-14 SACD player (modified by Tube Research Labs)
- Conrad-Johnson 17LS Tube Preamplifier (Amperex Holland 60s tubes)
- Rotel RMB-1095 5X200W power amplifier
- Wilson Benesch Discovery loudspeakers

I am looking for a solid-state power amplifier with 200WPC minimum to drive the WB loudspeakers. I originally thought of getting a set of Parasound JC-1 monoblocks but realize that the heat dissipation would be an issue in my modest sized room. I will stick with a tube preamplifier however the brand/model may evolve over time.

Living in Canada, I thought that SimAudio and Classe would be two companies worth investigating. Both of these Quebec, Canada based companies have a good reputation for building high quality power amplifiers. Also both appear to be stable financially.

The current models I am looking at are:
- SimAudio WS, 190WPC
- Classe CA2200, 200WPC

If I win the lottery, I might consider getting the monoblock versions, ;-}
- SimAudio W10, 750WPC
- Classe CAM400, 400WPC

I am interested in the feedback of those who have compared the amplifiers of these two companies. Also feedback about these companies in general. I understand that Classe is now owned by the holding company that owns B&W and has a stake in Rotel. Not sure if SimAudio is still an independent company.
shuang

Showing 1 response by jimstew0010

jimstew0010
7 posts
 
Audio4ever ( or is it SimAudio4ever?)Your statement that Bryston is not ''in the same category as Sim, Classe, Krell'' has got to be one of the most biased borderline-mean point of view from a Sim Audio promoter (virtually ALL of your posts are endless praises of ALL Sim products).

Hardly convincing since there is NO way you have owned and properly evaluated ALL these Sim products that you rave about. Gimme a break here !

Work for Sim ? Work for a dealer? (or worked for a dealer in the past?) C'mon, I think the OPPOSITE is true, not being sure if Sim belongs as far as sound is concerned (OK for looks, and the high price though). SIM is good-looking gear, buy WAY overpriced and overhyped.

Not saying that Bryston is the best, but it is a very solid, honest performer that deliver the goods, and belongs up there, ABOVE Sim in many respects, including of course customer respect with the Bryston 20 year warranty.

I owned the mighty 7 B's and a Sim W-5. Not a fair match I admit, the 7 B's being effortless and refined, compared to Sim's house sound, meaning dry, dark, an drier still.

Not evaluating Bryston to be included at least in that select group makes fools of all of us who ever owned this great brand - Be fair will 'ya ? That's the Audiogon spirit.
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