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Ayre Parasound Pass : where are you?

I’ve been thinking a little bit about three different types of SS amplifier sounds. I’m not really sure what to call them, but I have a definite preference. Here is the spectrum in my mind:

Ayre <--> Parasound <--> Pass 

On the one hand is Ayre and Arcam. Yeah, fight me, but there are big similarities to the sound. I also loved the Pono and what it did for my IEMs, using the Ayre designed output stage. I wish Fiio would license it too.

In the middle is Parasound Halo and ICEpower Class D modules (I’ve owned both) which to me are identical in sound quality. Clearly I’m happy with them for the price!

On the opposite end of the spectrum is Pass. A sound I really don’t like.

But regardless of which you like, what do you think the differences are?

What spectrum do you use to think about solid state amplifiers??
erik_squires
gdnrbob
4,442 posts
 
A lot would depend upon the speakers being driven.
For me, using Vandersteen speakers, Ayre seems to be the best choice.
I haven't had any experience with Class D amps- though I would be interested in trying.
Pass would seem to be a better choice for hard to drive speakers, which may be why you find them off putting.
Just my 2 cents...
B
mr_bill
347 posts
 
Erik, are the Arcam amps similar sounding to the Ayre amps?  I’ve jever heard the Arcam. 
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