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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

128x128jay73
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,332 posts
 

I’m using Pass Labs XA30.8 with Martin Logan Montis. Preamp is Pass XP-12. 
Incredible sound and never runs out of headroom no matter how hard I push it. 
Purity, dynamics and details in spades. 
I wouldn’t hesitate going with Pass Labs amplifiers. 

jay73's avatar
jay73 OP
219 posts
 

@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. 

jg2077
159 posts
 

@rfnoise. +10

Great advise given thus far.  That Coda is a bargain.    Excellent amp, excellent service.   I have a Coda S-100 and won't part with it...  I also have Mephisto Solos,  Boulder 2050/2060 and Krell KAS amps.

 

Give the Coda a chance,  you won't regret it. 

 

Good luck in your search, 

Jose

tweak1
3,559 posts
 

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

yyzsantabarbara
4,538 posts
 

I also had the LSA Voyager 350 GAN (modded by EVS). It is not a Class A sound. It sounds more like a Benchmark AHB2 with more low-end and can go down to 2 Ohms. I sold the LSA Voyager -> Parasound A21+ -> KRELL 175XD (happy with the KRELL). I kept the Benchmark AHB2.

The KRELL stereo amps are rather ugly and big. The K-300i is not too bad looking.

Here is a review of the Parasound A21+ that mentioned Class A and low volume listening.

Parasound Halo A 21+ Stereo Amplifier Reviewed - HomeTheaterReview

I owned the older Parasound A23 and I was happy to sell it. The A21+ was so much better than the A23. From what I have read the A21 is supposed to be a big step up from the A23. I would imagine the same for A23+ to A21+.

 

 

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