Parasound vs Coda


All,

I've been doing a lot of research into moving up from my current amplifier (Parasound JC5) and have scoured comparisons of Parasound to Pass Labs and others that I've been considering. Speakers are Focal Kanta 3s, Pass XP22, Lumin U1, Denafrips Terminator Plus. The setup sounds great as is but would be interested in an amp that offers a bit more refinement in the midrange and treble. Coda from all my research could fit that goal.

 

One comparison I haven't found has been users who've heard Parasound and Coda amps (I'm considering the Coda 16 or possibly 8) and would love to hear about what others have heard as far as preference, tonality differences, etc. Thank you in advance!

christianb5s4

@helomech If you recall, what did you like more about Coda over Parasound besides being quieter? 

@christianb5s4 

The Coda has greater resolution, a wider soundstage, and better instrument separation. Also, it’s more refined and has greater decay as mentioned earlier. 

FWIW, the JC5 is merely an A21+ with a slightly altered bias and better quality parts. Both the JC5 and A21+ measure worse than the original THX-rated A21, and it’s definitely audible in real world use. The newer Parasound Halo amps are a regression in performance despite the claims of the spec sheets. 
 

 

 

@christianb5s4 Did you get to listen to the KRELL Duo 300XD?

I have to agree with the post above regarding Parasound and CODA. Though I only had the A21+.  The A21+ is good for the price, the A23 I had was not so good, even for the price.

@helomech Thanks for the explanation, Destination Hifi is not far so I plan to go up for a demo. They're the closest Coda dealer by far.

 

@yyzsantabarbara I did not, I was over optimistic on how much time I had this past weekend. A weakness of mine.

I have tried Coda no 16 in my setup. The JC1+ were a much better match for my Focal speakers. They also were a better match than my X260.8 Pass monos.