2. amps-preamps
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Digital amps overhyped ?

I am looking for a new amp for my aerial's, I would love to get a classe 5200 but it is over my budget, I just read a glowing reveiw of the wired for sound amp, but I read conficting opinions on ice powered amps, also, I see a lot of them for sale on audiogon, since the wired for sound amp is a buy direct from company , I have no way of auditioning it, I do not want to go to the hassle of shipping it back if I don't like, the bottom line is, should I avoid ice power amps, I have been burned in the past on over hyped audio purchases, opinions?, thanks
128x128samski
narrod
1,064 posts
 
Hype in the audio world! Surely you jest.
tan43
128 posts
 
I replaced my Spectral system with Bel Canto S300 and
PRE3 and have not regretted it one bit.
You have to give these amps ample time to burn in.
It took mine about six months. I think a lot of those sold
have not been given this time.
usblues
1,217 posts
 
Before we burn you again here and we will,what speakers,room size etc are you having????
dcstep
1,518 posts
 
It's not "digital", just a switching power supply. ICEPower is a Class D-like circuit licensed from B&O and is maturing into the basis very good amplifier option. (Many makers greatly modify the ICEPower unit). If you like the Classe' then go for it. Others to consider are Jeff Rowland Design Group, Bel Canto, Spectron and a few others.

Generally, they provide high performance. Don't worry about the operation mode, since it's sound that you're after. Does it match well with the requirements of your speakers should really be your first consideration.

I love my Rowland Continuum 500 integrated amp, driving Vienna Acoustic Beethoven Baby Grand speakers. The Aerials are great speakers that should benefit from a powerful amp.

Dave
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