2. amps-preamps
  3. 166105-525

Considering the Parasound A23+ amplifier

As the title suggests I am thinking about the purchase of the Parasound A23+ amplifier. Just looking for thoughts from those familiar with this amplifier regarding tonal balance, soundstaging, reliability, and  serviceability. I am using a Aric Audio Special 6SN7 based tube preamplifier with Tannoy Sterling speakers (91dB, 8ohm) and also have a pair of Esoteric MG10s stand mounts (87dB, 6ohms). Room volume is ~1500sq. ft.  Not concerned about the power of this amplifier as I believe it would serve either speaker power wise.

As some of you might know I have recently purchased a used Pass XA25 which for my tastes I have found to be generally too lean, with excessive brightness in some passages. As I also wish to purchase a tube amplifier I am hoping the A23+ might serve my SS needs while also my budget.

Alternative recommendations accepted.  

Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
mesch
mesch OP
3,506 posts
 

 

As a closing comment to this thread I should add that I have kept the XA25 and the Transcend amplifiers. The XA25 has grown on to me the more I have used it. One or both of 'us' has broken in.  The Transcend is a wonderful replacement. Currently using the EL34s and playing with the variable feedback when this amp is in use.

 

jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 

As a closing comment to this thread I should add that I have kept the XA25 and the Transcend amplifiers. 

excellent choices @mesch 

happy listening buddy!

audioman58's avatar
audioman58
4,169 posts
 

One big improvement for sure on back a 8 amp fusec used a qsa yellow fuse 

inside there are 4- 20 mm 8 amp T rail fuses I put4 qsa blue fuses in there 

and at the transformer a 2 amp T  fuse which is also a blue one all fuses have arrows-face them towards the back , and I uses cost effective Pangea AC 9 -SE 

power cords these upgrades totally  blow away the23+  by arleaet 15-20%

it has great detail, bass and natural warmth now , tweek get has fuses about  $450 invested , Perrotta consulting i purchased it from and got a pretty sweet deal.

More to discover