Class A power amp don't have an intrinsic sound. The overall design of the amp is more important. It's not like in tube amps where someone can hear the difference between EL84s and 300Bs.
Question about Class A
So I read all the time how awesome Class A Amps/Integrated's (SS and Tube) are.
I currently have a Vincent SV-500 Hybrid and feel it sounds really good.
But I have this itch now to hear what Class A would sound like and would it be a big difference to my current Vincent.
I wanted to ask what are some good Class A Integrated's that I could look into?
I know Pass Labs always comes up and for good reason but those might be a bit out of my budget.
I would say I can probably go to $3K new or used.
Sugden is another brand that I have researched a lot and the A21 retails for around $2500 and there is a dealer in Socal that carries it, so that one is tempting.
Vincent has the SV-237 MK II but I think that is only Class A for the 1st 10 watts into 8-ohms and I have 4-ohm speakers so I am not sure if that would give me any Class A magic. I am sure it would sound similar to my SV-500 but have more base extension.
Could you all recommend any other one's? I have been researching but haven't come across any (SS or Tube).
Thanks
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@audioguy85 Ever get a chance to hear Sudgen's integrated one model up from the A-21se? I think its called the i-4? |
@audioguy85 A dealer in Irvine, CA is selling the A21 for $2400 actually (my mistake). That’s the one that I was referring to. The A21se, they sell for $3250 as you mentioned. @cakyol The Schitt Aegir does look interesting. I looked into it a little bit. Seems like two use the Aegir as mono’s, you need to use the balanced input and my Vincent does not have Balanced outputs. Also, according to reviews I read, when used as mono’s, you have to be connected to 8-ohm speakers although I saw a review by New Record Day on YT and he had them connected to 4-ohm speakers but I guess it’s not official by Schitt. And Class A is for the first 10 watts and after that it goes into it’s "Continuity" Technology which is supposed to still sound close to Class A. But as I said, it does look like an interesting option. |
@jay73 You can find a used Parasound A21+ for around $2500. Which is what I paid for it. I traded it in for a KRELL 175XD but the A21+ was very good. [edit] Oops. I did not realize you were referring to the Sudgen . However, have a listen to the Parasound. It is rather good and in the price range you seek. The first 6 watts are Class A.
Here is the marketing for the KRELL. iBias Technology – Krell (krellhifi.com)
Seems pretty clear to me.
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I have to second the Krell K 300i with it’s Patent Pending I bias circuitry - I have owned my Krell integrated for over two years and drive Maggie 1.7is. It fills the room with Class A sound and never runs hot. New it does cost $7,000 but if you find one used grab it - you will not be disappointed - build quality is amazing! |
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