Any comments on the T+A PA 2000 R integrated amplifier?


I own the Musical Fidelity M6si integrated amp and like it very much. My friend owns a T & A amp and ‘strongly’ recommends I consider upgrading my amp to the T+A Elektroakustik PA 2000 R Integrated Amplifier. My source is the Indigo IS-1 Streamer, Bricasti M21 DAC and PMC Twenty5.1 speakers.

Obviously, this is an expensive upgrade, so I am thinking about it. My retailer says “the Musical Fidelity is darned good. However, he also said the T+A should sound a bit more refined and even a bit richer and smoother".

My sense is the M6si is a fantastic performer at its price point, offering a balanced and engaging sound. However, it seems, the T & A PA 2000 R amp might have better resolution, smoother highs, and superior control over dynamics. Since I am looking for a more luxurious and emotionally engaging sound, the T+A is might be a worthy upgrade (maybe?).

There is a pre-owned T+A PA 2000 R integrated amplifier on Audiogon listed for $5,250. Do you have any thoughts? Thanks…

hgeifman

@hgeifman 

I think I can help. I used to own the R2000. If the listing is from Perotta consulting, that was the integrated I traded in for the T+A PA 3100 HV model. 

The R2000 is very smooth and a bit on the warm side of neutral. I bought it new and only traded up because I was needing a bit more power on the large scale symphonic music I sometimes listen to. On everyday listening, it lacked for nothing. 

Quick story: I took it to my local dealer to audition speakers I ended up purchasing. I wanted to make sure it could drive them well. He hadn’t heard any T+A gear before. He was mightily impressed and started inquiring about carrying the brand. Sound quality, build quality and company reputation are all first rate. 

I’ve not heard a lot of Musical Fidelity gear, but what I’ve heard was a bit on the bright side.  Based on memory, the T+A will likely sound more refined, smoother and warmer. If it has enough power for you, jump on it.

Hope this helps.

Curious -- is your friend a good enough friend to bring his amp over for you to try it out in your system?  Seems that would give you a solid answer.

I would not base your decision on one person’s experience with a single piece of gear. If you genuinely want to upgrade, do some homework and find the best solution for your ears and system. 

@mlsstl

Thanks. A great suggestion but my friend lives 2,400 miles away.

@zlone

Thanks and I agree. I have been researching amps for a while and the T & A amp is at the top of my list. Unfortunately, my nearest retailer is about 400 miles away. I plan to visit him when time permits.

@hgeifman 

I believe you have the right idea. T+A offers great circuit engineering whose Sonic’s punch above their price points.  Great Sonic products, but whether you”ll like comes down to personal “subjective” sonic preferences and maybe speaker matching.