2. amps-preamps
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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
 

A quick summary of recommendations so far:

Class AB

  • Croft Integrated (tube hybrid)
  • Naim (Super Nait) (possibly not as smooth as other options)
  • Hegel H360 (possibly not as smooth as other options)
  • L-505UX II
  • Luxman L-509X
  • Accuphase E380-480

Class A

  • Used Hafler DH200/220
  • Used Krell
  • ModWright KWA (A/AB)
  • Odyssey Khartago Extreme
  • Luxman L-550AXII
  • Parasound Hint (A/AB)
  • Pass Labs (XA-25) - what about INT-25?
  • Accuphase

Cables / accessories

  • Shunyata (Venom) Power Cables and Conditioner

I didn’t take into account every recommendation, especially not the very high end options mentioned simply as current equipment. They should be more or less ordered according to price.

The most convincing tend to be, unsurprisingly, above my budget, so I’ll have to think about that.

Any comments on this list are welcome, especially as to how they compare, or if someone believes I shouldn’t consider some of these options. Any additions, especially in more reasonable budgets would be very useful, and hopefully not just for me.

If I had the budget, a Luxman or Accuphase would be my favorites at the moment, especially as they exist as relatively normal integrated amps. I would also prefer established brands in this price range. Or perhaps a Pass Labs integrated, but that stretches the budget much too far and they are to my knowledge hard to come by on the secondary market, especially in European versions, and I can’t try them out anywhere close by.

Regarding Luxman and Accuphase, would the class AB models be "smooth enough" or should I focus on class A as some have recommended, despite power consumption (and price, especially for Accuphase)?

wlutke
728 posts
 

I solved a similar problem with what I termed "glare" that, after trying a few combinations of gear, was firmly convinced was mostly a room problem.   Unfixable because of space, use and WAF.  In desperation I tried an equalizer.  Not recommended.  Then a month ago a last ditch demo and purchase of a used Luxman L-505uxii.  It really mitigated the problem and is a fantastic match with my speakers.  I had Herron pre and Pass XA-25 power (tube pre, class A power) and I do miss the smoothness in some backing vocals.  Overall a very smooth, engaging, dynamic, and powerful presentation though, with a surprising low noise floor.  I'm in love.  Like yourself, I wonder about going up/sideways in the line.  The 509x for the better pre or going with the class A offerings - rumored to be phased out by Luxman in the near future.  The 505 used was $3300, almost two years old.  Finding deals on Luxman is difficult to say the least.  I'm gladly keeping the 505 for now.  It's sooo engaging on 95% of my listening. 

onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
5,232 posts
 

Based upon Duckworp's post, have you scheduled an appointment with an audiologist/ENT?  All the suggested equipment fixes are nonsense if you don't address the root cause of your problem!

ebm
9,311 posts
 

You got the wrong amp if this happens.

quinster
10 posts
 

Suggest adding the Sugden A21SE to your list of class A amps. It is well reviewed everywhere and very available for audition in Europe. Also cheaper than othe options.

 

I am very sensitive to sharpness as well, and although finally I went with luxman (more neutral) the Sugden was on my list.

 

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