Curious what kind tubes you're using, that could be one way to help (maybe not solve) the problem?
Considering the Parasound A23+ amplifier
As the title suggests I am thinking about the purchase of the Parasound A23+ amplifier. Just looking for thoughts from those familiar with this amplifier regarding tonal balance, soundstaging, reliability, and serviceability. I am using a Aric Audio Special 6SN7 based tube preamplifier with Tannoy Sterling speakers (91dB, 8ohm) and also have a pair of Esoteric MG10s stand mounts (87dB, 6ohms). Room volume is ~1500sq. ft. Not concerned about the power of this amplifier as I believe it would serve either speaker power wise.
As some of you might know I have recently purchased a used Pass XA25 which for my tastes I have found to be generally too lean, with excessive brightness in some passages. As I also wish to purchase a tube amplifier I am hoping the A23+ might serve my SS needs while also my budget.
Alternative recommendations accepted.
Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
As some of you might know I have recently purchased a used Pass XA25 which for my tastes I have found to be generally too lean, with excessive brightness in some passages. As I also wish to purchase a tube amplifier I am hoping the A23+ might serve my SS needs while also my budget.
Alternative recommendations accepted.
Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
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- 30 posts total
Personally, I found the A23 (didn't own the A23+) to be dull...as though listening through a blanket. Another member here, Whitextix, has both a Don Sachs preamp and power amp...and just purchased a Purifi as a "run cooler" option for the summer. He loves it, clear, detailed, massive soundstage...and I just noticed the same one he purchased popped up as preowned yesterday on AC....here is a link. FOR SALE: Purifi 1ET400A Amplifier Stereo Sparkos OpAmp ss3602 (audiocircle.com) |
@mesch Your assessment is not too far off on the XA25, yet there may be a few things to look in to further before you leap away. Also, just for grins I tried a A23+ last summer for a month. It was okay, hoped it might be a 2nd amp to rotate in to give my tube monos a rest. It was not on the same level as your XA25. You have a nice combo, worth more tuning. Tubes: Exactly what (brand, year) tubes are in your Aric 6SN7 linestage-preamp? The sound from different 6SN7s alone can make a difference. ICs: Seriously, what interconnects are you using between your Aric pre and the XA25 now? It's a real factor with Pass gear some times. My last 3 pairs of ICs all went to Pass Labs owners btw for similar reasons. |
- 30 posts total