What's the verdict on the Adcom GFA-5802


I am considering changing(up grading)to Adcom GFA-5802 amp and GFP-750 pre. I currently am using a Parasound HCA-1500a and Parasound P/HP-850 pre, will I be disappointed? Is there a better high power, high quality, budget combo out there? I have Audio Physic Virgo II speakers.
Thanks for your help.
gandme

Showing 3 responses by daltonlanny

In my opinion, and from experience owning both at the same time, the Adcom GFP-750 and GFA-5802 match up together very well and have a natural synergy.
They have good bass, an excellent warm midrange with outstanding vocal reproduction, and a good smooth treble.
The only thing that seemed to be somewhat lacking from this combo was ultimate top-end extension and air, and overall speed. In some ways this combo really excels, however.
I feel that the Adcom combo would be somewhat warmer, more transparent, smoother, and would have better vocal reproduction than the Parasound combo.
From experience, with the HCA-3500 power amp and the P/LD-2000 preamp, the Parasounds are probably brighter, alittle more extended on top, and may have slightly better bass extension.
What do you like and dislike about the sound of the Parasound combo?
I have to agree with Bigtee about the 5802.
There are better budget amps out there.
The 5802 is slightly dull, alittle congested, and just a small tad slower than some amps.
In my system, however, it did match up better with the GFP-750 preamp than with any other preamp I had on hand, and had exceptional vocal reproduction in my particular system.
I do think that I would try out a different amp if I were you, however.
And, the Adcom GFP-750 is a killer preamp for the price, especially used.
The only real weaknesses the Adcom preamp has is a slight dryness, and a slightly grainy or highlighted top-end in active mode, otherwise its strong suits: focus and transparency, are hard to beat in its price range.