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So Hard to Decide on an Amp

Hey,

So lately I have been thinking about getting an Amp and using my existing Vincent SV-500 Hybrid Integrated as a Pre-Amp.

I have inquired about some amps in other threads but it just seems so hard to decide as to what will have good Synergy with my system.

Wish I could try out all the Amps that I am thinking about but that would be quite difficult.

The one that is at the top of my list (mind you I haven't personally heard any of these, just going on reviews) is the Pass Labs XA25.

But am also considering the Parasound A21+ and A23+, Benchmark AHB2 and Mystere PA21.

All of have received good reviews and comments from folks.

I suppose the Parasound, especially the A21+ would provide the best Base Response but the others would also be quite worthy.

Tomorrow, I have a Technics SL-G700 SACD Player arriving and so I will be playing with that for a little bit to see if I like it (I am pretty confident I will). My current Denon DVD Bluray Player which I was using has been acting up and I decided it was time for an upgrade.

But soon after, I think I want to try an amp. Not that I really need it, the Vincent satisfies but I am just curious to what an Amp can bring to the table in my system.

Thanks

Jay
jay73

Showing 2 responses by hilde45

hilde45's avatar
hilde45
5,261 posts
 
The warnings here about synergy are very valid. I’m presently trying out a Van Alstine SET 400. It is well made with a lot of power. There’s a 30 day trial for his amps; you might consider a SET 120 for those speakers.

I like buying from small makers, directly, with good reputations (Salk, Quicksilver, MHDT). No question the Pass is a great amp, but the price is high, you’re paying for the name (a bit), and synergy is still a question. My two cents.
hilde45's avatar
hilde45
5,261 posts
 
OP, to add on to what others have said -- I want to second the idea that a sub might be a good idea. I auditioned the ML Motion 60s and their bass was fantastic, but the Motions could probably use a sub. You might reach out to Martin Logan for their opinion.

The other thing I would mention is that doing analysis on my room's EQ taught me what was missing and what was too loud; speaker and listening positioning helped a lot of that and brought sounds which were missing into existence without any change of gear. Beyond that, I bought some room treatments and now have a very balanced and full room. It stopped cold what could have been an endless chase for more gear.

To put it briefly, if you don't know how well your room is set up, you just cannot know what gear will be best to invest in.
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