Are ICEpower amps really that good?

I don't think I have ever heard the ICE amps, but have definitely heard my share of digital amps. Most enjoyable of the bunch were the Channel Islands amps. They don't look like much and they are simply designed, but the sound was excellent. However, I would not classify the sound as analog like. It is actually hard to describe although it was pleasing to me. Rick at EVS is supposed to have some new amps that are outstanding as well.

Dazzdax - if you really want that analog sound from your amp you need to listen to the solid state TRL D-225 or ST-225 integrated. I have had the D-225 in my system for about 6 months now and it is trul amazing. I am now using it primarily with a passive preamp (although I am contemplating the TRL battery powered preamp) and it is amazing how much more analog the sound is versus my older tube set-up. These amps aren't much on looks, especially versus Accuphase, but they have the sound you desire. Cost wise, they are not in the same league as most of the ICE/digital amps, but they are an excellent value nontheless. You should give Paul Weitzel a call. Money back guarantee as well.

The Channel Island Audio amps are based on a module called "UcD" which is similar in concept to the "ICE" module but supposedly incorporates an improved topography which eliminates sensitivity of distortion to load impedance. I have five D200 amps in my multichannel system, and I am well satisfied with them. Like the H2O amp the CI Audio amps use a massive conventional power supply.

If you want to try a top of the line digital amp for less than a grand, and can do a DIY project, the UcD modules, and power supply modules and transformers are available from Hypex (www.hypex.nl).

I have to agree with Tvad, there is nothing warm sounding about the Nuforce amps.

Eldartford, you are very fortunate to own Channel Island amps which have a linear power supply. I prefer a linear power supply in my digital amps as opposed to switching.

Eldartford, are there any digital supply UCD amps out there? It seems to me almost all ICE amp builders are taking the cheap way out, sacrificing the best sound. I don't know anyone around here that has a UCD amp, only TacT and ICE.