cat jl3 signatures vs. atmashere ma2III's

Having heard the M60s, MA-1 mkIIIs, and MA-2 mkIIs, I think its fair to say there is not much sonic difference between the Atma-Sphere amps, assuming a reasonable load. I suspect the choice depends more on speakers, room size, the 'scale' of reproduction one prefers, and one's priorities regarding authority and weight in the very lowest frequencies.

The MA-2s coupled with Wilson Maxx 2s (in a setup v. similar to what Marc has) are *very* impressive. Not quite the very last word in lowest-end heft and punch as one might get from say, the ARC Ref 210s or the CAT, but little else is lacking. The MA-1s and MA-2s certainly offer top-notch low-end tonal definition and articulation. And while there may be equals, I've yet to hear any amp that is quicker than an Atma.

In terms of tonality, the Atmas compete with the best. Until I learn better, I cash out the issues of 'lean' or 'full' as a question of relative higher order harmonic distortion. The issue of tonal 'weight' is one I gauge as a matter of personal preference.

And, fwiw, choice of driver tubes definitely make a difference here. Most all Soundstage reviews stick with stock tubes - and rightly so. The Chinese 6SN7s that Ralph provides are some of the best current manufacture in terms of low noise, construction consistency, and reliability. But put in a few Ken-Rads or RCA 6SN7s, and then tell me what you think about harmonic weight.

While lowest-end authority may (very) slightly tip in favor of beefy transformers, on the flip side, I've heard nothing that competes with the exquisitely filigreed top end from Atmas. It just keeps going and going and going.

In the end, at this level of quality, their is no 'best' other than what works best in your system to yield the level of sonics and satisfaction that work best for you.

Lastly, I can't say enough good things about the new MP-1 mk.III w/ phono in conjunction with Atma-Sphere amplification. (Thanks to those who read my review.) Certainly at its price point. I'd enjoy reading comments of comparison about other preamps folks find work well with Atma-Sphere amps.

Tim

The only problem with the Marc Mickelson review of the CAT JL2 amps is that he says "I put the JL2 Signature Mk 2 with the Wilson Audio Alexandria X-2 and MAXX 2 speakers in a group of the finest audio components"

I'm not a Wislon basher, i like them...but wilson the FINEST speaker : cough cough...

The wilson have not the naturalness and the subtility of Avalon, maybe is why he doesn't heard the strong point of atma on CAT (?).

Although good review (and he takes position i like that), with so wonderful amplifiers it's too bad he hasn't tested them on two different speakers.

Sounds like two SOTA, outstanding products, that only a personal audition in your system can solve. There are many people who love and swear by both. No bad choice here, unless you have a really tricky speaker for the OTLs, the Escalantes obviously are not.

Samuel33, You must have miss read Marc's comment, "...in a group of the finest audio components." He didn't say the CAT or Wilson's were THE finest but in a "group of the finest." I think that's a broad statement and fair enough.

Another thing, in soundstage he tested these amplifiers with the Aurum Acoustics Integris CDP 's intern preamp (!) i'm not sure that it was a good moove...