2. amps-preamps
  3. 147886-11297

Should an amp have a "personality"?

I currently have a SimAudio W-7 amp.  If there is a word to describe its sound, it would be NEUTRALITY precisely capitalized.  I mean it is neutral to a fault.  It's NOT warm, or bright, or analytical, or sweet, or anything that might be misconstrued as a personality.  It's just "IS".  It has nothing that would offend me but nothing that is endearing either.  I suppose some people may like this type of sound.  I also have another SimAudio Moon W-3 amp, and although it is neutral, but it has a distinct personality of being slightly forward, slightly upfront and ultimately more interesting to listen to.  

At this point, I am a bit disappointed what the W7 is not "FOR".  I want its sound to be FOR something be it slightly warm, or forward, or a touch bright or something that is a bit interesting even if it is a flaw.  It's like a politician who wouldn't say he's for something at the risk of offending his potential voters.  

PASS Labs amps are known to be a bit warm in the bass along with all their class A type of sound just as tube amps but they somehow make music sings.  
andy2
andy2 OP
1,545 posts
 
Some of those German audiophiles and a few others in their quest for the  ///'neutral'/// sound get the sound that is sterile and lacks many colors and nuances of the original.

You just used the word "neutral".  
inna
7,296 posts
 
It is also possible that you might prefer tube amp. I do too, I don't have one because I would want a great one and that is big expenses.
inna
7,296 posts
 
Anyway, you'll figure it out. I was saying it as if I were one of those Germans because they believe in this utopia.
andy2 OP
1,545 posts
 
It is also possible that you might prefer tube amp. I do too, I don't have one because I would want a great one and that is big expenses.

Yes, it all comes down to cost ... if only I have a million lying around lols
snapsc
674 posts
 
Most likely, an amplifier designer uses 3/4 different pairs/types of speakers...to voice his amp so that it sounds like he wants it to sound....neutral, lush, forward, whatever...  And his voicing may or may not be to your liking...

And, if you have different speakers, electronics, room, etc., then what you hear is going to be different....maybe to your liking and maybe not.


It is not a case of right or wrong, it is a case of preference and the reality of synergy...and why we often have to go through several pieces of equipment to find what works well together to deliver the sound that speaks to us.
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