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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 7 responses by jay73

jay73's avatar
jay73 OP
219 posts
 
@speakermaster,

Could you expand on that, regarding the impedance mismatching?

jay73's avatar
jay73 OP
219 posts
 
Here is more info:

Speakers are Martin Logan Motion 40.
Sources are pretty much everything: Vinyl, CD/SACD, DSD, Qobuz, Cassette
Room is about 20x15 with High Cathedral Style Ceilings

No issue with my current Integrated.

I am just wondering if a better amp would bring out more detail in the music. I don’t necessarily listen at high volumes, in fact, many times I listen at low to moderate levels, once in a while I might crank it up a little.

By the way, I just realized I probably should have posted this under Amp Section.
jay73's avatar
jay73 OP
219 posts
 
Thanks to everyone for your input.

Much to think about here.

The toughest part is to try to audition the pieces that I am interested in, especially the Pass Labs.

The Benchmark and Parasound I could buy and return if I don't like it.

I might be able to demo the Mystere through a local dealer but I am not aware of anyone around in Socal that demo's Passlabs.

Thanks
jay73's avatar
jay73 OP
219 posts
 
@helomech and @yyzsantabarbara 

Thanks for your feedback.

I just recently came across the Benchmark Amp and have seen only positive reviews and comments.

Small on stature but big on sound is the impression that I am getting from it.
jay73's avatar
jay73 OP
219 posts
 
@redwoodaudio, I use a Isotek EVO3 Sirius but that is more a Power Bar vs a line cleaner at least according Isotek.

jay73's avatar
jay73 OP
219 posts
 
@chorus,

Thanks for your reply.

I have been looking for used XA25's but nothing close to $3K so far.

What Pre-Amp did you use with the XA25?

Compared to your existing setup, do you feel the Int25 is a big step up?

My understanding is that the amp in the INT25 is the same as XA25.
jay73's avatar
jay73 OP
219 posts
 
@anotherbob, Good Catch! I didn't even realize I mistyped that.

@athrillofhope - Thanks for that feedback, I will need to check them out.

Thanks for all the feedback!
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