new Parasound A21+ vs my old Rotel RB-1080
Parasound is having a sale on siver. Audiogon moderator just removed the post.
any advice on an A21+ to replace an old Rotel RB1080? system is MartinLogan ESL-X . I have an top end tube audio-gd preamp with a PSA-DacJr and Eversolo source. SVS micro sub. I think that the Rotel is the bottleneck for clarity. I recall it being a step up from my Adcom 5400, still warmish but with better bass control. With the tube pre, I was hoping to upgrade to a strong Class A neutral SS like a Pass or Coda. but probably never have the budget. for $1500, do you think it would be worth it? or too similar to the Rotel
Ok, I was trying to be nice but now I’ll just give it to you straight. Your speakers won’t give you what you’re looking for because they can’t. I worked for Magnolia for a bit and listened to a lotta ML speakers with my reference recordings, and they just don’t do what you want from them. You can put any amp or any other piece of equipment in there and you’ll still be disappointed. And that’s not a guess at all. |
Listening to Audio equipment is a funny thing. A person preference comes into play, correct system matching, your own ability to hear well, etc. I have noticed that many audiophiles who have bought and sold many pieces of gear have found good results. Some have multiple systems that have been mixed and matched. To get good results, many factors have to align. |
I’ve had a great experience with my Rotel power amp putting out 200 WPC into 8 ohms and 350 into 4. Plenty of control for my Arendal 1723 towers that crave good clean power. Upgraded from a top of the line Denon putting out 140 WPC at 8 ohms in 2 channel Mode. I looked at a Parasound but passed. Your experience may differ. Suggest making sure you can return if necessary. I don’t think the manufacturer has that option available. |
I have ML ESLs, and I've used them with Rotel, Parasound, Conrad-Johnson Sonographe, some Chinese class D's, and Hafler. The ESL are extremely crisp and clean in the high end and the only amp that diminished that was the Parasound (it was a low end Parasound, though). Every box speaker I've ever heard adds coloration to the sound of a snare drum or male voices, and the dome tweeters on them just don't match the transparency of the ML's. I might suggest you raise the back end of your speakers so that the electrostatic panel is perpendicular to the floor. I think you'll find that the speakers character changes dramatically, and may be more of what you're looking for. |
I believe that @soix is correct and he is saving me time, money and frustration from chasing the unattainable with cables and components. if I must hear realistic ride cymbals, I need to sit in my car. If I want live sound, go crank up the PA system in the basement/backyard (I do prefer outdoor venues). I am just outside of the HOA and many of my neighbors enjoy the concerts. often stopping by to check out the band. (only to be disappoint it is just a recording). As for vocals and acoustic with an in the room presence, the ESL are believable. and they can play anything all day and not be fatiguing. |
