2. amps-preamps
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Parasound Halo A23 paired with Peachtree Nova 125

I recently acquired a used Halo A23 from a local buyer. I also have a fairly new Peachtree Nova 125. As I mentioned in another thread, I recently bought B&W CM10s and found the Peachtree to be a bit too bright and lacking just a bit on the bass (the CM10s have an additional base driver). However, I really love the DAC in the Peachtree and am quite satisfied with the overall clarity and detail.

So the question is if its worth spending $$$ to buy a Parasound P5 preamp or use the Peachtree as the preamp/DAC in combination with the A23. I mostly listen via a digital source (iTunes via Airplay/Apple TV) and don't really need phono or other features of a typical preamp.

Problem is that no dealers in my area actually have the P5 in stock, so there's no way to do an audition. Of couture, I can buy it from Audio Advisor which has a decent return policy. But I don't want to go through the hassle of shipping it back if it doesn't work out.

Trying to figure out if the improvement in sound will be noticeably better if I get the P5.

Any advice will greatly appreciated.
128x128arafiq
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
Hey Arafiq, looks like you picked up that used A23 you mentioned in your other post. How is driving the CM10's? Are you getting the bass extension you felt was lacking with the amp section built into the Peachtree? Is it a keeper?

If so, then its just a question of which will be a better preamp for you - the P5 or keeping your current Peachtree. I would definitely get the P5 from AA and take advantage of their return policy. IMO, the cost of return shipping is a small price to pay for a 30 day in home trial. If the P5 turns out to be the right preamp, then sell the Peachtree - its a current model and should bring you a good amount to help subsidize the new purchase.
Trying to figure out if the improvement in sound will be noticeably better if I get the P5.
From all your efforts to date, you have probably figured out by now that no one can really answer this but you - you'll have to hear for yourself and be the judge. But if you don't get the P5 and try it, you will always be wondering "what if"?
arafiq's avatar
arafiq OP
1,694 posts
 
Dhl93449 - I totally agree with you. After I paired the CM10s with the Rotel separates, the brightness went away. Unfortunately, I just didn't agree with Rotel's so-called 'house sound'. This is not to say there's anything wrong with Rotel gear, as they do sell quite a bit, and most reviews I read were positive. But perhaps, not my cup of tea.

I wish I could move up the Parasound chain to JC2 and JC1, but I just don't have the funds for it presently. Besides, my better half, who's already a bit leery of this expensive hobby, will give an earful to me - and that too in a very bright, unbalanced tone :)
arafiq's avatar
arafiq OP
1,694 posts
 
Hi Paraneer, yes I did pickup the A23 from a local buyer. It turned out to be a pretty good deal. The amp is a little over two years old and in pristine condition. Besides, he knocked down the price even lower. I just couldn't refuse.

Unfortunately, I was pretty busy the last few days so the A23 is still sitting in my closet. I'll probably hook it up today or tomorrow.

So my current plan is to pair it with the Peachtree and listen to it for a few weeks. If a used P5 becomes available in the meantime, I'd probably jump on that one. But in the meantime, I figured why spend money on buying a new P5. I'm sure something is bound to show up soon here at agon.

As always, your valuable advice is greatly appreciated. After I hook it up with the Peachtree, I'll post my findings here.
runnin
397 posts
 
Yep, you may not even need the P5. Until you connect the A23 into the system and compare, hold off on a purchase would be my advice. B&W can be bright, but the right electronics and or cables can help. I found that cheap brass gold plated banana plugs on my speaker cables reduced the brightness.
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
Well Arafiq, now I know you haven't heard the A23 yet, I agree with Runnin. Connect that A23 first and you may find the Peachtree as a preamp is all you need.

Let us know how everything sounds as you move forward. Good luck!
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