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!
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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@yyzsantabarbara , you mentioned Parasound. I was actually thinking about Parasound also but maybe the A23+. If the A21+ puts out 6 watts in Class A then the A23+ might be half that or something, I am not sure. But I suppose it could still sound good. Overall seems to get good reviews. The one thing I am confused about these types of amps is, at what point or volume, does it switch to AB from A. With the Parasound, if I listen in low volumes, am I pretty much staying within Class A territory? The Krell, as I said before, might be out of my budget but I will keep a eye out. But I have to say one thing (don't hate me for it, haha) but at least from the pics, the aesthetics do not look that attractive). I know, I shouldn't go on looks but performance. The Nelson Pass First Watts might be an option to. Damn, so many good choices. |
Investigate GaN amps first. There are several threads on AG that should prove helpful (one is mine). As I recall, at least one person preferred the LSA Voyager GaN amp to Nelson Pass, PLUS, GaN runs cool (less electricity) and Underwood sells them for ~ $2500. I have owned one for over a year now, and every upgrade I make around it is immediately appreciated |
- 77 posts total