Parasound JC-2 character?


Stereophile’s review of the Parasound JC-2 suggested that the preamp is lean or perhaps analytical. Is this preamp musically engaging? The Positive Feedback review claimed it sometimes sounds a bit sweet. I am not looking for a warm sound or lean sound. But I’ve never heard a preamp that completely neutral, so I would rather have a product that faults a tiny bit towards warm than analytical. Are there any JC-2 owners out there that finds the preamp to be musically engaging and natural? I have no way to hear the JC-2 so I may have to purchase with out an audition. Any insights would be appreciated.
5560
My close audio buddy has JC1s and Vandersteen 5as and I have listened to music on his system extensively. What makes a difference are the upstream sources, not these amps. They are neutral, powerful and have everything you could ask for. They will deliver to the speakers accurately that which they are fed. What determines the outcome is the preamp and most importantly the quality of the sources, room and software.
Essentialaudio--If Parasound requies face to face deliveries, how is Audio Advisor able to sell via phone, catalogue and Internet? Thanks
I'll help clear this up for you. Essentialaudio is correct with the exception that Audio Advisor is the ONLY authorized mail order vender for Parasound. They have the line because some people aren't anywhere near a dealer to be able to audition, and Parasound doesn't want to deny them access to their products. If a dealer is near you Parasound would prefer you purchase from them. A dealer is able to offer you benefits like auditions and product synergy recommendations, along with local warranty support and product tech support.

As for a response to the original question, I find the Halo JC-2 to be incredibly neutral, dynamic, and revealing with plenty of "bloom". I can honestly say that it was the single biggest improvement my system has ever seen when I got mine. It will reveal flaws in other equipment if there are any, and especially poor recordings because it is so resolving. It has tons of impact and bass is powerfull and articulate. It's like turning the volume on everything up eccept the noise. All that low level detail is now audible. Also, the channel seperation is so much better than anything else I've heard, it was like I upgraded to monoblocks. Not harsh, not analitical, just sweet! $4000 only seems expensive until you compare it with anything else that can be considered it's peer. In that case, it is a standout bargain!