2. amps-preamps
  3. 176711-145530

Amp Search and Upgrade

So currently I have a Parasound Integrated, the Hint 6, that are driving my Dali Opticon 8. They are rated as a 4 ohm speaker with an 88 db sensitivity. I am looking to upgrade one item this year so I want to make it count. The integrated has pre-outs so I can adda 2 channel amp or a pair of mono blocks.

At this point would I be better off getting just an amp and using the Hint 6 as pre temporarily until I can afford a better pre amp or should I get both pre and amp at once? I'm thinking something used {hopefully) in the $4k range.

I only stream using a Bluesound Node 2i feeding a very nice DAC, an Aqua LaVoce S2, I also have a pair of REL T/7i subs.

Recommendations on what would pair with the Dali's and whether I should stick with the Parasound as pre please!

dadork
daledeee1's avatar
daledeee1
570 posts
 

The Parasound amps i have heard are warm sounding. So a new amp may take a little getting used to.  

NOTE: I bought an upgrade from Pd Creative for the Bluesound.  Definite improvement. $132.  Not a linear power supply but the Meanwell PSU is quiet.  

wturkey's avatar
wturkey
774 posts
 

The Bryston option is a good one. Even better if they are still in the 20 year warranty window. 

thehorn
111 posts
 

A 4 ohm speaker with an 88 db sensitivity, really?

You’ve got the tail wagging the dog.

Keep your Parasound. Ditch the Dali’s, use the proceeds from the sale, + your $4 grand budget & get a more efficent set-up.

Good luck!

 

fastfreight
804 posts
 

I came from Parasound Halo amps.  Very nice, but a bit warm and under resolving compared to my replacements, Audionet Max amps.  they are more pricey, but the Audionet Amps (not Max) are also excellent.  I also compared the Parasound JC1+ mono amps to my Audionet Max amps and it was no comparison.  The Audinet stuff is resolving without fatigue.

drewdawg999's avatar
drewdawg999
53 posts
 

Been checking out Peachtree Audio and it looks pretty good.  The GaN400 and preDAC package is $4500, not too bad, saving a lot if you buy power amp and pre together.  The GaN400 is Class D though, but it's brand spanking new technology and puts out 400 watts per channel.  Getting rave reviews from what I've seen.

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