2. amps-preamps
  3. 179577-176979

Transients hurting my ears on hifi solid state amps

I've looked at many discussions on listening fatigue and similar topics, but haven't really found the answer to the specific problem I've been having.

To me, modern higher end solid state amplifiers tend have too much slam or too sharp transients and that ends up hurting my ears even at 60db levels. Even listening to mellow jazz, the piano notes are just uncomfortable to listen to because of the attack.

I currently have Buchardt S300 Mk II speakers, which are not high sensitivity by any stretch, and are rather smooth sounding, but I don't know if they could contribute to the issue somehow?

The worst case regarding amplifiers I tried was the Rogue Sphinx V2, which is 100W hybrid Class D with tube preamp. Another I had at home for an extended period and had an issue with was the Arcam SA20, which should be a relatively smooth sounding amplifier, and it did get a little closer to what I was looking for.

I currently have a Primaluna Dialogue Premium integrated and I'm very happy with it. The amp I tried to replace was a Marantz PM6005, which is also very smooth. Both are under the recommended power rating of the speakers (even though that's relative for a tube amp), so I'm wondering whether that could be part of it.

I listen mostly to vinyl (Graham Slee Reflex M preamp) with some digital too (Denafrips Pontus II). Both are relatively smooth and vinyl, while usually being softer, doesn't solve the issue. 

I'm looking to switch back to solid state (class AB) for various reasons and I was wondering if anybody had had similar experiences and recommendations for amps? Most amps, especially higher end, tend to emphasize the dynamics, punch, agility, etc. and I struggle to find anything that would seem to fit the bill. Tubes seem to do the trick for me, especially with some tube rolling, but not sure where to go with solid state. The budget would be around 2000$.

haskisoundi
haskisoundi OP
25 posts
 

Thanks @duckworp for the detailed account. Sorry to hear you have the same or a similar issue, but happily you have found a good option for music listening. Your problems sound very familiar, albeit perhaps a little stronger. It does seem that very high end gear can produce fantastic sound without being aggressive and hopefully, taking care of the issues solid state produces. Thanks for the feedback on Naim, it does have a reputation for dynamics and liveliness, so perhaps not the best option. Perhaps a used Luxman could be in my budget.

The EQ is an good idea to investigate, especially as they can be had for cheap. It would be interesting to see if certain frequencies are the issue.

Thanks again for all the fantastic suggestions, I will look into Odyssey, Krell, etc. that are options closer to my budget.

If I did go that class A route, does anyone have experience with First Watt amplifiers in this context? I know the different models have different flavors and I'm not sure which would be most suitable (if any). Used or a DIY kit could make that option more affordable. Any relatively cheap solid state preamp recommendations for a class A power amp?

gemoody
138 posts
 

You might look at Accuphase. Their x80 series of integrateds are very cool and tip-top quality. Said to be very smooth and rich on the sound. You can insert a DAC card, and a Phono Card, both of which are high-quality, given they are not standalone.  I think the sweet spot is the 380 and 480. 

That said, they are pricey, and the US pricing is messed-up when you compare it to the rest of the world.  They make a Class A SS, but even more pricey.

zlone
691 posts
 

I think that Class A is your solution, however I understand your concerns about heat and energy usage. A good compromise are SS amps that are heavily biased such as the Codas. When I upgraded from NAD to the #8, the change was remarkable in terms of smoothness and lack of fatigue. I realize this is out of your current range, but thought it worth sharing my experience. Other amp brands may offer similar designs. 

gareents
65 posts
 

I had a Rogue Sphinx and completely agree it was one of the brightest amps I have ever heard. Sold it off after a few months.

As others have mentioned, moving to a good SS class A amp was the solution that worked for me. I now have both a Pass 30.8 and a Modwright KWA 150 amps. Both are outstanding, possessing great detail without harshness/brightness.

Modwright, especially, comes up on the used market at very reasonable prices and Dan Wright is the best, by far, audio manufacturer I have ever dealt with.

  -GAR

avanti1960
1,480 posts
 

Sounds like clipping and straining except for the Sphinx which I find fatiguing. Tube amps tend to soft clip so that could be a solution- find a deal on a Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II or III and you will have plenty of power and dynamics with zero fatigue.  I love the sound of that amp. 

Parasound HINT will also work- used and demos should come close to your budget.  

More to discover