Parasound A-23 or Parasound HCA 2200

Had a pair of A23's.

Derived from JC, but not actually designed BY JC, if memory serves.

Still, very good, modern sounding amps. Quite physically warm, and biased further into Class A than spec. Neutral to slightly warm without being stark. Not juicy at all.

Parasound states the A23 is circuity designed by John Curl, they used to describe his amps as Amplifier designed by John Curl

@jl35

I stand corrected.  I think I confused it with the language for the integrated.

My bad,

E

Hi Teo.  Thanks for the advice.  It did occur to me that an amp of that age might need some 'cap' work.  How would I  know (other than checking for capacitors that bulge like miniature soup cans infected with botulism) ? 

If I intended to keep this amp long-term, I might be inclined to have the caps replaced, just on the theory that they are too old not to have issues.  But since I only intend to keep it for a few months until I have enough $$ to buy what I want (a Newer Bryston 4B SST), I thought I would play that by ear -- literally.

Assuming I do need to have it re-capped.  (And maybe I would do that prior to selling it anyway.) Where would be a good place to send it.  It appears you do that work.  Perhaps you would provide an estimate.

Another thought:  Maybe I should settle for an Integrated amp with a bit less current but a decent preamp section for now.  My immediate plan is to connect my DAC directly to the amp. (I am not a fan of vinyl.  I had plenty of the required maintenance and penalty for lack of it when I was younger so I just need 1 input. I have been 100% digital for decades.  Lately, I have ditched the CDs in favor of TIDAL hifi)

Aslo I have chanced upon an HCA 2250.  Thoughts on this amp?