2. amps-preamps
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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
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
@whacky:  In your initial post you stated this:

"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."

I just re-read your thread to re-familiarize myself.

Your statement above makes me wonder if a Tubed Preamp might be a better fit? Just a thought. Curious if others might agree.

Or a Tubed Amplifier driven direct by your Mytek Brooklyn DAC?



hddg's avatar
hddg
123 posts
 
Many good stuff out there, but not Primaluna or Parasound for me.

Tubes:
1- Coincident 211PP Dragon MKII for the fullest and most incredible      sound with lots of power
2- Coincident 300B Frankenstein MKII with Psvane WE300B tubes, if you dont have to play very loud.

Solid State:
1- Benchmark AHB2 for power, resolution, and most amazing attack and dynamics, or
2 - Passlab XA-60.8 (and up..100.8 etc) for good transistor with some tube sound, but not as performant as the Benchmark in overall.
smrex13
645 posts
 
I find the Primaluna Dialogue HP integrated to be phenomenal.  It was already the best I'd heard in my system, and then I swapped in some NOS tubes...WOW!  
whacky's avatar
whacky OP
53 posts
 
So I found a solid deal on a Primaluna Dialogue HP integrated. 
Currently is loaded up with all stock tubes. Although I ordered some Cifte 12au7 tubes to play with as well.

Picking it up tomorrow. 

Very much looking forward to performing some A/B comparisons between that and the Parasound A31 on my Double Impact speakers.  

Will report back after I spend some serious time playing around and listening. 
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Congratulations! Let us know how it works out and post your impressions, etc. as well as over on the Double Impact thread. 
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