EAR CDP can be run direct to amplifier(s) with the volume control. Otherwise, the recommended setting for output is at 2 o'clock. There really wasn't an EAR Acute 2, it skipped up to Acute 3 with digital input, then the two box version and now the one box EAR Classic.
The E.A.R. Acute l and III begin life as an Arcam player. The transport mechanism and logic circuitry, including the latest Wolfson DAC, are retained, but everything else is replaced. I heard the Classic with Prana speakers and a Class D amp with stock tubes and my CDs (Ramsey Lewis Down to Earth, Ellington & Basie Bands) and it sounded excellent. The original Acute l sells for $1800 to $2000 used on GON. Possibly more for the Acute lll. They are analog-like sound with great dynamics and frequency response. Truly amazing CDPs.
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- 178 posts total
- 178 posts total