Intergrated amp upgrade ?


I presently have a Rotel A12 and enjoy it, but thinking about upgrading to an Arcam SA-30 or a Parasound Halo 2.1, I’m running AE - 509’s for speakers. This is a bedroom system is is played at low levels. Will upgrading amp improve the sound quality at lower volume levels? Anyone have experience with either intergrated amp. and thoughts on both?

rbull11

There is a discussion about LOW VOLUME Listening currently.

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/high-end-speakers-at-low-volume

I would look for optional features, Vintage: 'Loudness' circuit, Modern, at least tone controls to boost bass, or a tape or processor loop and can optionally use the Chase RLC-1 I linked

 

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649994791-parasound-halo-hint-6-integrated-amplifier-with-built-in-dac-silver/

I owned a Parasound Halo Integrated 2.1...One of the greatest audio bargains I've ever had. The above is the upgraded version.

Great company, great support, and fabulous products.

BTW- my current system is around 80K....If I had o go back to the Parasound integrated....It would not be an issue.

@elliottbnewcombjr 

Elliot is correct, you need an amp with a loudness control, or at least tone controls, you lose a lot of music at the top and bottom end playing at low volume, it's just the way the ear works. Both those amps are great sounding, but will not make a dramatic difference in sound at low volume, and will not accomplish what you want. 

Another solution is to add a small sub to what you have (there are many small powered subs now available that can fit almost anywhere), and try that first. 

 

 

deadhead1000,

Assuming low volume listening is frequent:

IF anyone adds a sub to their system, to 'normally' extend the low bass capability, and ALSO for bass boost at low volume, it is a bit tricky.

using a sub can work IF you have independent remote volume control of the sub. Normal setting for normal volume listening; boost a bit for low volume listening.

Next, you need to remember what/where you adjusted to get back to 'normal volume' setting.

Adjustable Crossover. Use the highest crossover to the sub, so that more low frequencies are boosted.

https://www.sweetwater.com/insync/music-instrument-frequency-cheatsheet/

also OP said: the adjustment does not need to be 'accurate', just provide/restore an enjoyable sound.

My McIntosh mx110z's 'Loudness' is also boosting the highs, but I don't focus on that, as I said, restoring bass at low volumes preserves involvement for me.

Jazz Bass involves frequencies above sub's range, thus even if you have added a sub or stereo pair of sub's for normal bass extension, a simple tone control for bass might sound better.

The Chase RLC-1, progressive/automatic loudness is the same, juicing the bass up as volume drops is the primary advantage for me.

McIntosh Pre-amp's 'Loudness', (most vintage preamps/receivers) I have forgotten to disengage it, you notice bloated bass right away.

Chase RLC-1, you simply turn it on/off to get it back to default volume with no FM adjustment.