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Spectron vs Parasound vs Cary vs ?

I need help deciding on my next move for a 2 channel amp. I will be powering my B&W 802D speakers thru a Cary SLP03 tube preamp. I am currently using a Cary cinema 7B amp as I prefer it sound to the Krell 400Xi that I have been using. The Krell is too hard and etching on highs. The Cary offers a better balance and warmer sound without giving up any detail. I have also been considering the Cary Cinema 2 which is twice the ouput of the Cinema 7B @ 200W. I have been considering the Specton, Parasound A21 and perhaps a Pass amp. My budget is 4K, new or used.

Sources are Rega Planar 2 turntable, Oppo 83 SE, Rotel 1520 CD and Krell KID.

stl114_nj
michael_moskowich
86 posts
 
I don;t want to say a bad word regarding NuForce or any other amplifier in the world but you must be aware that your B&W802 need huge amount of power to utilize them FULLY.

I have had very similar story with my Watt/Puppy 8 and only when I bought Spectron I realized that my speakers are REALLY capable of.

I am extraordinary happy with my Spectron (and Wilsons) and cannot recommend it high enough !!!

Mike
ajackson1
156 posts
 
I have owned the Spectron, Parasound and the Cary. I settled with the Cary.
michael_moskowich
86 posts
 
Ajackson: What speakers do you have?
I am asking it because B&W802, referenced in original question, are very power hungry
Thank you
Mike
terryakhan's avatar
terryakhan
109 posts
 
Spectron.
revrob
105 posts
 
Another amp to consider is the Wyred SX-1000 mono blocks at 570 watts a channel. I have some power hungry speakers that demand a lot power like the B&W. I have the Wyred with the Joule tube preamp and its is a killer combination.

Good luck in your search.
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