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Parasound vs Primaluna vs Alternatives

I realize this is comparing two different types of amps, but thats kinda the idea here.

I currently own a Parasound A31 which powers my front left, center, and front right channels. 


However I am only currently concerned and focused on 2 channel stereo listening when it comes to this decision. 

Basically, I would love to delve into the tube world (tube rolling appeals to me) and I have read nothing but good reviews on Primaluna products.

I do a lot of listening of both vinyl via my soon-to-be-replaced Project debut carbon with AT440MLa MM cartridge, as well as digital via Audirvana, Tidal, and tons of DSD files from my Mac Mini.

Everything runs from either a Mac Mini or turntable into a Brooklyn DAC which outputs to Marantz 7702 in Pure Direct mode to current Parasound A31. 

Current Loudspeakers are Tekton Double Impacts. 


Basically, I am very curious about what would really change by switching the Parasound for something like a well respected tube amp like the Primaluna Dialogue HP? Ideally I would love something that would increase my sound stage and provide as holographic and precise an image as possible. Absolutely love closing my eyes and feeling the exact space of the recording. 


Thoughts and suggestions all appreciated. 

Thanks

128x128whacky
whacky's avatar
whacky OP
53 posts
 
I guess I initially convinced myself I needed to run it out from the Brooklyn to the marantz to keep that as the center hub for everything from stereo listening to home theater use with downloaded Dolby digital or DTS movies with encoded sound via optical or hdmi. 

But now that you've said that, I could just bypass the marantz for stereo listening. Easy enough. I'll Give it a whirl.  Only lost feature would be the volume control via the marantz. 

Little bonus....can now run balanced out from the Brooklyn to the  Parasound. 


Still doesnt necessarily give me a good idea of the difference between the Parasound and a solid Tube amp like the Primaluna with my setup, which is the burning curiosity. 
roxy54's avatar
roxy54
8,015 posts
 
It would be very different, and the only way to know if you will like the difference is to try it. If you don't, it's a popular brand that you can turn over easily.
kdude66
1,200 posts
 
Whacky,

I'm assuming you have never heard a tube amp,I started with a Mac 275 and Khorns 31yrs ago when I was 21 and have lots of gear in between to now.

Going to sound diff. Than a parasound and the only way to know for sure is to try.

Like Roxy said if you don't like it the primaluna brand is a popular brand and resale is good.

Kenny.
facten
2,882 posts
 
Raven Audio gets good reviews on its tube gear.

Depending upon your budget I'll recommend Line Magnetic 518IA I drive my Deadalus Argos V2s with it. Other Agon members recommend LM's 508IA (in the Tekton DI thread you'll see at least one member using the 508IA with the DIs so you can get direct feedback contacting the persons using the 2 ). The 518 is $4500; the 518IA is $5000
mountainsong's avatar
mountainsong
422 posts
 
Hegel 360
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