After several weeks of use with the Audion updated to MK3, I am very happy with the sound, it has been a worthwhile update. Congratulations to Alberto for allowing this equipment update system. It is a pity that in Spain there is no representative from whom you can request proof of the previous Alto. Now my audio distributor has let me try a solid preamp from the German brand Trynity and it gives a good sound, but I think that before making any decision to purchase the definitive preamp for my system, try a good tube preamp. I think Jay's uses Allnic with his Audions.
New Generation Class D - AGD Audion Mkiii upgrade
I have always had a preference for horn-loaded loudspeakers which, whilst typically easy to drive, can be quite revealing (good/bad) of any changes in the system. I am running Avantgarde Duo’s and have until now always preferred valve amplifiers for their mid-range and lack of fatigue.
I have heard a number of Class D amplifiers and one or two have sounded pretty good but a bit lean compared to valves. Tha changed when I purchased a pair of AGD Audion Mkii amplifiers. The Audions have an almost valve-like mid-range but with a wonderfully transparent top end and great sound-staging. It’s always been difficult to get really convincing bass with my Avantgarde’s because if you increase the bass level the low frequencies can sound detached from the glorious mids/highs. This changed with the Audions as the bass is faster, more dynamic and just overall more satisfying.
These compact amplifiers have what appears to be a valve for each amplifier. This ‘valve’ glows red and I rather like the effect. I did think this was a bit of a gimmick at first but it contains a Gallium Nitride MOSFET power stage. However, this ‘GAN-Tube’ means that if an improvement is developed you can just swap the tubes for the new version. That is exactly what I have done as AGD have launched a Mkiii ‘GAN-Tube.
I was extremely happy with my Mkii Audions and wasn’t sure what to expect with the Mkiii tubes. But as audiophiles it’s difficult to resist an upgrade. The new tubes were fitted in under 5 minutes. I’ve found most components need time to warm-up and ‘burn-in’ so wasn’t expecting too much initially. However, it immediately became apparent that, even at very low volume, there was more detail. I pumped up the volume and was astounded by the wider soundstage which extended beyond the speakers and allowed you to pick out instruments and vocals even clearer. This is something that I’ve found difficult to achieve with Avantgarde’s and I didn’t have with my previous OTL amp. Dynamics are a strength with horns and the Audions really produce a ‘live’ sound, quite startling at times. I’m not great at describing all the audiophile things but would just say that these amps make the system sound so enjoyable and exciting to listen to. They are the best by far that I’ve had in my system.
I know some people will have a hesitation over Class D amps (like I did) but I really think this next generation amps like the AGD Audions will become more and more popular once people get the chance to hear them.
- ...
- 107 posts total
@rajugsw Jay is correct. The GaN FETS that Alberto is using were initially designed, they were designed with audio in mind. Not claiming each company that uses the tech doesn't have all kinds of additional proprietary implementation secrets, but they are nearly all using chips designed for other things. Whether you think that makes any difference is up to you, but the AGD amps are incredible devices, They combine amazing design, fabulous sound, and easy upgradability in a way that no one else touches right now. |
@nadimjaber , I have not tried them with any other pre, but will soon, as I recently purchased ( happy birthday to me!) an Ayon CD-35 that is also a pre amp. I am currently listening to it through the PL and will be trying out the pre amp side side soon.
|
I had both the Audion II’s and the Atmasphere Class D’s at the same time and preferred the Audions. They are fast, neutral, delicate, well balanced and have a very black background. I found the Atmas to have a bit of graininess in the upper mids. They were a bit weightier. There was a slight transformer hum, which might be abnormal, but that put me off a bit. |
BTW - I in no way think of the Audions as having tubes. I would be fine if the “glass envelopes” were opaque. I don’t really like that they glow with LED’s. But I am willing to overlook all of that further sound, and the convenience of the upgrade. I will soon receive the version three upgrade, and see what I think. |
- 107 posts total