2. amps-preamps
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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
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
After eight years of owning a Bryston 4B-SST² I can say that it can be made to sound like ANYTHING I WANT

@elizabeth  I'm confused by your statement. Is it the amp that sounds different or is it your system based on the changes you are making (attributable to those changes)? Thanks.
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tomic601's avatar
tomic601
13,109 posts
 
@elizabeth is pretty much spot on, i can attest that in a reasonably resolving system, outlet and power cord can significantly impact sound....for me a $750 MIT power cord into an Ayre VX-R was not the answer......

gdnrbob
4,465 posts
 
@tomic601 
I have heard similar reports regarding Ayre amps and 'upgraded' power cords. One fellow said it is probably the zero feedback design. Who knows, but it seems that Ayre sound reproduction is not affected by changing power cords (or, it doesn't seem to change significantly).
B
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