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ICE amps vs analog amps for bass

I'm currently running Legacy Helix loudspeakers. The bass and subwoofers are being driven by two pair of 500 watt ICE amplifier modules while the Midrange and treble frequencies are being driven by two pair of Levinson 436 amplifiers. While originally auditioning the speakers I heard them with analog amps on the bass, treble, and midrange sections and the sound was superb. However, I was assured that the ICE amps would be sufficient to drive the bass sections so I've given them a try. However the bass sounds funny. I don't hear the impact, definition, and subtle "spatial cues" that I know are in the recordings.
I partially am blaming the ICE modules. I'd sure like some input in solving the problem. I can "upgrade" to "analog" amps for the bass if I choose, but for space reasons and economic reasons, would prefer to continue to use the ICE amps. I'm considering Parasound JC-1s, or Bryston 7bs, for the bass if I switch.
Thanks for your help in advance.
Steve
128x128sgr
sgr's avatar
sgr OP
689 posts
 
Some amps I'm considering are the Brston 7B monos or the 14b stereo version with a damping factor of 300 at 20 hz or the Parasound JC-1s. The JC-1s have an over the top damping factor 1200 at 20hz. Any ideas wich ones might match up with my Levinson amps?
undertow
1,033 posts
 
300 damping is excellent, you will fill the room with real tone and move some air for sure vs. what you have I believe.
vman71
218 posts
 
As Guidocorona has already mentioned, it ultimately depends on how well it is implemented. I have a very special pair of Audio Magic Model 250 ICE-based amps and will NEVER let them go. Are they the "be all, end all" of amps...no...but I'm 100% sure that the budget it would take for me to replace them with something better is WAY out of my league.
coffeey's avatar
coffeey
363 posts
 
There we go with damping factor again.
sgr's avatar
sgr OP
689 posts
 
Thanks again for all suggestions.

Coofeey, Thanks for reminding me about the damping factor thing again. I believe you'd be right.

Vman71, The ICE power, I've no doubt would be just the thing, however the ICE power amps installed in the speakers are not modified in any way, just raw as B&O designed them.

So I'll be looking at Bryston 7b monoss or a 14b stereo. Would I need to get the latest spec to use as bass amps? As I have space limitations, maybe I should look at 14b ssts. Has anyone compared the newest version to the older sst series? Can older amps be updated by Bryston?
Thanks again for all your input.
Steve
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