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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
jay73's avatar
jay73 OP
219 posts
 

Wow, this is great!

Thanks so much for this.

I really appreciate it.

rocray's avatar
rocray
1,448 posts
 

Nice! That is slicker than cat poop!  Looking forward to your impressions. 

jay73's avatar
jay73 OP
219 posts
 

Well, I thought I would post an update.

I received the Sugden A21se a few weeks ago and have been listening to it whenever I get a moment. The only times I really can listen wholeheartedly is in the late evenings when the wife goes to bed and things outside settle down (unfortunately I have some noisy streets) and even then, the weekends are really the best time for me to listen.

So far, I don't notice a huge difference between the Sugden and my Vincent. But I would say that is probably because of the rest of the equipment. Perhaps if the Sugden had better equipment to play with, it could shine even more.

Right now it feels like, if both were considered sport cars, perhaps the Sugden would be ahead but if you looked in the rear view mirror, the Vincent is not too far behind.

It's probably too early to tell. I need to spend more time with it.

In no way, does it sound bad. I think certain tracks whether digital or vinyl have caught my attention but need more time.

Now, I am thinking I want to use both amps. I may purchase a quality switchbox. I have contacted Decware and Mapletree regarding their offerings.

So that is my quick update for now.

mesch
3,410 posts
 

Unless I missed it, nowhere herein did you state the other components of your system.  Remember you are listening to a system, not a single component.

I would not involve a switch box. Listen to the Sugden for a while. Then replace with the Vincent. Repeat with extended listening sessions. The experience will lead you to understand what sonic attributes are most important to you. 

Another question, what is size of your room?

jay73's avatar
jay73 OP
219 posts
 

@mesch 

I did list some of my components earlier in the thread but here is what I am working with:

- Martin Logan Motion 40 Speakers
- MoFi Studio Deck TT w/Hana SL MC
- Questyle CMA400i DAC
- Playing with 2 different phono pre-amps at the moment (Moon 110lp V2 and Jolida JD9 MK II)
- Technics SL-G700 SACD
- Windows PC used for Streaming (Qobuz) and Library of music (Flac, DSD) using Jriver

 

My room is about: 20' x 11' Cathedral Style Ceilings

The reason I mentioned the switch is because I really like my Vincent too and would like to utilize it sometimes.

 

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