Parasound vs Coda


All,

I've been doing a lot of research into moving up from my current amplifier (Parasound JC5) and have scoured comparisons of Parasound to Pass Labs and others that I've been considering. Speakers are Focal Kanta 3s, Pass XP22, Lumin U1, Denafrips Terminator Plus. The setup sounds great as is but would be interested in an amp that offers a bit more refinement in the midrange and treble. Coda from all my research could fit that goal.

 

One comparison I haven't found has been users who've heard Parasound and Coda amps (I'm considering the Coda 16 or possibly 8) and would love to hear about what others have heard as far as preference, tonality differences, etc. Thank you in advance!

christianb5s4

I've been trying to learn as much about the tube side as possible for a while, but have a long way to go especially since the options plus tube rolling make for nearly infinite choices. Almost headswimming as a tube noob!

 

Aric, Allnic, Zeto, Modwright, and others are often mentioned and recommended. I really like detail, clarity, works with all genres, but with some warmth and bloom.

I absolutely recommend going to a tube preamp. I have owned Pass preamps… I now own Audio Research… no contest in my mind… or Presto, Conrad Johnson, there are others as well. 

@christianb5s4 

I had a CODA 16. I would consider it neutral with outstanding bass. It is a great company with stellar customer service. I have since moved on to McIntosh Mc 611s. I prefer more warmth and a much stronger bass/midbass response. 

@christianb5s4 "interested in an amp that offers a bit more refinement in the midrange and treble."

 

While I run a tube preamp when paired with my Pass/Forte’ Class A amp, and yes it sounds nice, and we also understand what your JC5 amp is, I’m wondering what you feel your XP22 / JC5 combo is missing now with midrange and treble?

i.e Is it too detailed/grainy or too soft/veiled over, or what’s going on that you don’t care for,...and now have the itch to buy another amp or another preamp. The JC5 is no slouch and neither is the XP22. Maybe there is another way to get you "there".

In other words what is "more refinement" to you - can you share a little more?

 

 

 

 

I own a Coda #8 and in my opinion it is superior to Parasound. I was making the same considerations as you. I am lucky to live 15 minutes from the factory so not only did I buy direct from Doug Dale but he took me on a tour of their small facility, and we talked for over an hour with their history with Threshold and Nelson Pass. Two huge advantages with the coda are the versions 1, 2, and 3 are all the same costs and he will do the upgrades for free minus shipping if needed. Also, these units have a 10 year warranty with 5 years being transferable. The parts quality and build on these is amazing. I’m driving some Magnepan's with them and it sounds amazing. Many people in these forums are making recommendations on this and have never heard the Coda products. Coda was rarely at audio shows, and they don't do these anymore per their owner. Legacy used to use them at shows but that's been a while. Yes, I have heard Parasound amps many times.