2. amps-preamps
  3. 1019593429

Really dumb question about Atmasphere amps

Hi,
Recent upgrades of my system left me really satisfied (AP Virgos, BAT VK-60, Placette passive and an AudioNet ART V2 CDP) and I don't feel a pressuring need to run out and get something better. However, in some distant future I might consider an upgrade to some monoblocks and the Atmasphere amps seem to be very well regarded.
But one thing about them really strikes me as odd and I simply wondered: why do they (at least the MA1 model, I looked at) have their XLR/RCA inputs in the front? Seems very unpractical to me. Must look quite funny too, running your IC from the back of the system to the front of the amp (also unnecessarily increases the length of your ICs). How do you Atmasphere owners cope with that?
pipetman
sean
6,231 posts
 
Good question. I often wonder if designers actually ever use the gear that they design to find out just how well it works ( or doesn't work for that matter ) or if something like this was done for specific electrical considerations.

As to mono-blocks, i think that they take for granted that they will be sitting down by your individual speakers, so this would not be a cosmetic problem unless you had the mounted in your rack with the other gear. Sean
>
phild
603 posts
 
I think I remember reading that it keeps the signal path shorter than putting them in back.
tireguy
1,964 posts
 
Also they don't have to go near any of that power stuff that can introduce noise into your system. I agree it is usually a huge pain, but if set up like Sean says it would make perfect sense.
~Tim
jtinn
1,124 posts
 
I would say both Phild and Tireguy are correct.

I have to commend you on your choice. They are very fine amplifiers with a great reliability track record. I have owned the MA2 MK II.2's and they were magnificent. I have also spent quite a bit of time with the MA1's and they are some of the finest amplifiers in the world. They should do a fine job on the AP's.
fatparrot
1,314 posts
 
I own the M60-MkII.2's, and I actually prefer the inputs on the front! In my set-up, it makes the access to the interconnects MUCH EASIER! My personal opinion about Atma-sphere amps (besides loving them): I think that they are one of the best bargains in high end audio. I also feel that the amps sound best with the Atma-sphere pre-amps. I also believe that in tube gear, try to get the LOWEST POWER that your speakers will be happiest with. Unneeded power means unneeded expense. Happy Tunes!
More to discover