Anthem 225 vs Parasound A21 vs Emotiva Xpa 7 Gen 2

Thank you for the information. I am not  using a preamp,only an Oppo dvd player and amp. The Anthem is the MCA_225 Amp only, not integrated. I have ribbon drivers in my speakers and I like a smooth sound,not lean or fast but warm and detailed{ at least that's what I am hoping for] Thank you again.

Yep, I would definitely go with the Parasound A21 if you can swing it.  I have heard the Oppo player when it is connected directly to an Emotiva amp.  It is nice, but it is kind of dry.  You definitely need the Class A bias of the Parasound to help it "sing"!

I have the A21 and had the Odyssey Stratos some 8 yrs ago. The Parasound was better. Naturally open and neutral sound, clearer with more power. The Stratos and two other preamps I had from Odyssey developed noise and hum issues, the Tempest ( a history of problems with that model) and the Candela. I agree with auxinput, the A21 is a very good amp. That is my personal experience with those two companies.

I much preferred the Khartago Extreme to the A21. Didn't like the Parasound at all. You need to go listen. Many good amps at your price.