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Denon to Parasound

I’m looking to move on from my denon amps. Was previously considering the new crown drive ores but decided to pass after research. I want the sound of my recently sold technics sa 5760(first amp) back.

Looking at the Parasound a23. Max budget is $1000 msrp. Seems like Parasound would be a natural upgrade. I don’t want an emotiva or outlaw amp. Open to other entry level audio brands in this budget.

Am I going in the right direction? My setup is denon 4520ci->bluejeanscable->revel f12s & revel b1 subwoofer.

Would I notice improvement moving from a 150 watt per channel flagship denon to an audiophile 125 watt per channel separate? The denon was $2,500 msrp. Thoughts? If not, how much do I need to spend to get improved and similar power?
torriderword2
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,373 posts
 

All Odyssey amps double their power as the impedence drops. I would say it’s at least 200wpc. Depending on what options you get in your Khartago will determine the power output. The guy that designs Magico Speakers uses a Khartago in his lab, yes it’s that good.

Don't go strictly by the specs, it is the sound that counts.   The power difference between a 180wpc amp and a 200wpc amp will not be audible. 

mesch
3,473 posts
 
Though you may not go wrong with either the Parasound or the Odyssey, with the Odyssey you can call the guy up who will make your amp, Klaus Bunge.  The conversation alone will be worth it.  I was strongly considering the Khartago, however happen to find a used BEL 1001 MK5 at a dealership and purchased it. 
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 

Don't go strictly by the specs, it is the sound that counts.   The power difference between a 180wpc amp and a 200wpc amp will not be audible.
Good advice.
Speaking of specs, the fact that Parasound lists the current of its amp at 45 amps per channel means that it has high current, regardless of RMS wattage.

And the Odyssey is a great recommendation.
 
torriderword2 OP
7 posts
 
@stereo5 I understand 20 watts will not be audible. I’m looking for an impressive impedance halve power rating. I’m under the impression that’s the best way to read how robust an amplifier really is.

What should I be looking at? # of amps current delivery? The denon, at 173/238 8/4 ohms 0.1 thd should be powerful enough, but it’s not. The sound falls apart at high volume.

Thanks guys

Edit: actually Parasound.com rates the a23 125/225. Almost a complete double down. Audio advisor specs must not be accurate?
762matt
1 posts
 
I have Revel F-12's with a Parasound P5 pre and a A21 amp and love the combination, and some ways the A21 is amp overkill ( is that possible?). I haven't listened to a A23, but being the A21's little brother it sounds like a very good fit.
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