Pass Labs vs Mark Levinson vs Parasound - best 2 channel amp used under $2,500?

Forgot to add that from a cold start, at least my Pass amp doesn’t really come alive; it doesn’t sound horrible by any means. I do find if I leave it on for twenty four hours it sounds its best.

I did discover after adding dedicated circuits and better receptacles that I felt the amp was starving for power before a little. Nelson Pass notes in the manual, power cords don’t make a difference which I found isn’t accurate and indeed they do make a nice improvement.

Is the A23 the only Parasound you’ve had in your system? I only ask because the A23 is so far behind the A21 in just about every way possible. I’ve had an A23 and A21 and the difference in bass control, tonal balance, transients speed, depth and air is considerable between the two. It’s a night and day difference. I’ve lived with both amps for a few years each.I recently sold my my A21 and bought a Nelson Pass designed VFet amp. It’s like a cross between a Pass designed First Watt J2 and F6 sound wise. It’s better in every way over the A21 except bass control (as it’s only 25wpc vs 250wpc), but that’s a fine trade off for me as I feel it gives some of the best sound I’ve heard at any price.

My recommendation would be to look at a gently used First Watt amp. They’re all designed by the man himself, Nelson Pass. He used to manufacture and tuned them all by hand himself. He’s since passed all the manufacturing over the Pass Labs. A used First Watt J2 can be had four around $2000. Some of the best sound you’ll ever hear as long as your speakers aren’t extremely inefficient. If that’s the case and you have inefficient speakers then I’d wholeheartedly recommend an A21. Both are stellar amps that are worthy of the high end classification. It’s just the Pass designed stuff I find is a little more refined overall.

To everyone who has disagreed with me:

That's totally cool, but I really do suggest a buyer listen first. :) 

Best,

E

"...but I really do suggest a buyer listen first. :) "

I agree with you.

That said, I have had numerous Levinson, Pass Labs, and Parasound Halo and non Halo amps in my system. I currently listen to JC1s and think they are great. I think the various Pass Labs Class A amps are better still.

D.

Have had Levinson 534 monos, and currently using Pass XA 60.5s in a system somewhat like yours. Its mostly 2 channel music with vacuum tube preamp, but also L-R in a home theater, Pass is noticeable superior in my system. Less flat (both spacially and sonically) more dynamic, more accurate bass and highs.
Just so you know my preferences - I listen more often to a tube integrated amp in another less costly system, and actually prefer good tube “sound”.
Have not heard the Parasound, but I understand the latest JC is quite good, also.