Quicksilver audio and Decware are two manufacturers I considered when amp shopping. I have efficient speakers, so wattage was not that big of a factor. I ended up with the First Watt J2 and could not be happier.
Why is there no love for Prima Luna?
I have noticed fairly negative comments on Prima Luna in various discussions. Granted, I’ve never heard their gear but they seem to offer quite a value proposition. Point to point wiring, auto bias, protection circuits, easy tube rolling, good parts and build quality. I had considered looking into the Evo series integrated but the brand seems to be downplayed on this forum. Anyone have direct experience as to why?
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Because people here are biased against Chinese made products. What they don’t know is how great PL products are. I owned a pair of their 70 watt monoblocks, and drove Martin Logan CLSiiz’s with them for some of the best sound in my room. There was headroom aplenty. These were 85db speakers which commonly dropped to a 1 ohm load. Zero issues with the amps driving the speakers. People are simply biased, and some are simply audio snobs, which are very very common among the audio community. PL rules. They’ve been around nearly 15 years. What else do you want? To heck with the snobs. |
I've heard the big PL amps with KT150s driving $60,000 Sonus Fabers and the sound was very good. Not for detail enthusiasts but lovely sound. I do not like Mac 275s. I've heard 4 or 5 of iterations over the years. Leaves me unsatisfied with a variety of speakers. I would rather have new Mac SS than the 275. PLs are very reputable and I know the authorized repairman who said he saw a substantial number (dozens) for repair a few years back but that is only because Kevin Deal sells a boatload of them. They are very reliable and the latest EVO 400 has premium parts and construction at the price. Ayon equipment sounds more refined than PL but generally costs much more. I would rather have Ayon or VAC gear. I don't have Chinese gear because my gear is from U.S., U.K., Swiss, German, Taiwan and Japan. No specific reason why it's not from China. Don't knock PL gear just because it is made in China, it's a U.S. brand and has very good U.S. support. |
You’re in luck OP. Hot off the press. Good luck. https://parttimeaudiophile.com/2020/12/05/the-best-integrated-amplifiers-buyers-guide-2021/ |
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