Opinions on Parasound A21 & A21+


I have been informed that the sonics of both the older and new Parasound A21s are very similar.  I have never heard a Parasound product, let alone this model.  Forgetting for this moment system synergy, how good do you rate is this amplifier?  In basic sound character, is it a smooth operator with a non grainy, non fatiguing signature, that with proper systems matching will throw a 3d soundstage? Is it the entry-way to a high end, high power amplifier?  Please feel free to provide any down sides to this amplifier.  Last, what other amplifiers new or used in this $2,500-$3,100 price range would you consider?  I will mention that I generally hold onto my amplifiers for a long while so I prefer to buy new.

I have scoured and read many prior posts on this subject, but would just like some current opinions.  Thanks in advance.
jetter
I own the A51 and an A23.  Both are solid amps, great value.  I have listened to the A21 and it is even nicer.  I recently purchased the m700 mono amps for a new basement system.  The M700's are a good value, but not as nice as the A-21.  I have returned the M700's and the PS Audio BHK 250 is arriving next week!  I also swapped in my Classe CA 2300 for the  M700's and there was no comparison how much better the Classe was.  That is why I am getting the BHK 250.  Can't wait!  The m700's are smooth and warm, but lack the detail, soundstage and clarity I am looking for. Ken
batman, unfortunately my speaker brand is not one that you can say the name and people will recognize.  They are called Avance speakers, a Danish brand that is sold by dealers in 10 or 11 countries but not the U.S.  I picked up mine a while ago from a Canadian shop when they were selling in Canada, but no more.   They are two and 1/2 way with all scanspeak drivers, not unlike the Dana's on the attached but with one less driver. About 86 dB, 6 ohms nominal.   http://www.avance-audio.dk/

fastfreight, thank you for your post.  I did order the A21+ a few days ago and started reading about the M700's which I just became aware of.  Having you provide hands on experience with both amps was right on. I did do my share of reading and did consider Luxman integrateds, Pass and a lot of other more "Audiophile Check the Boxes" amps, but right now wanted the Parasound.  I have mentioned before I am two hours from an audio shop and just won't go in and test the amplifier at the store knowing I would be buying online. 

It will be delivered next week and we will see how it goes, but I am sure I will like it.  To whoever mentioned tubes, my preamplifier is tube (12AX7) based and I have had, and enjoyed, tube amplifiers in the past.

Thank you all for your kind input.
Just received my new A21+ and P6 preamp....

Hands down best sounding equipment for the money and even outperforms systems at twice price point.

Have had other high end amps... Krell FPB series, Pass X series, Levinson 333, Parasound JC-1’s.... and A21.... all were amazing.... completely satisfied with the job Parasound did with the + series. Quieter, channel separation better, just a more liquidy/? sound that draws me in... just has to be heard to appreciate.

Good luck.
Hi ribd11, I received my a21+ a month ago and agree regarding how it draws you into the music.  I have an older pair of speakers that are 2 1/2 way with 7" scanspeak mid/woofers made in Denmark by a company named Avance.  I have not posted remarks regarding how good it sounds because I really don't have the experience with other amps as you and others.  I have used Museatex-Meitner mono blocks, Dynaco ST70 series one and series two, and most recently a Nuforce STA200.  I have paired the amp with a very nice sounding Copland CTA305 preamp which uses 12ax7 tubes. There is just a rightness to the way my system sounds now.  

I have PM you with a couple of questions.
I find this discussion very interesting.  I have an old Parasound H2200 which is getting a little long in the tooth and may be in need of a refresh (It sounds good to me but I reently had a hum - not through the speakers that was resolved by tightening all the screws I could reach and the right channel positive output is fussy about how the speaker lead is inserted - banana ).  It seems it is the predecessor to the A21.  I am thinking to upgrade.  I have a tube pre-amp and a pair of Magnepan 1.7i's

From a look the A21 seems to have similar specs but a cleaner layout (not so many caps strewn about the place)  From the specs, the + adds about 25% more power,20% more uF (whatever that does for you) 50% reduction in THD at full power and small increase in signal to noise ratio.

I also have an opportunity to purchase 2 A21's (not plus) for 1380 each.  I could use them as mono's or use them to bi-amp my Maggies.

I don't know I could use them as monos.  My HCA2200 is not rated to drive a 4ohm load in bridged mode, if I remember correctly.

What say you?