Sanders sound or parasound for big ESL's

I own the JC-1s and have owned the 300 and 800 watt Innersound amps. The 300 watt Innersound is a great buy at around 1200 used. I think the 300 watt Innersound is just as powerful sounding as the 400 watt JC-1s. The JC-1s are sweeter and a little more magical. It would be a tough choice between the 800s and the JC-1s. If money is a factor then the 300 is the ticket I think. If I were setting up a system on a budget that would be my first choice in reasonably price high power solid state.

I thought the JC-1's might be a finer amplifier but for the money your right, it's tough to argue the Innersound value. The JC-1's are around $3500 used, over $2000 more than the innersound. There may not be a $2000 difference to be heard, though it would be great to compare them side by side. Thanks for the input.

Hi Lance,

I can provide a little more information. I've owned both the Innersound amp (driving the 'stat panels of Innersound 3.5s) and the JC-1s, driving my A-1s. I was always deeply impressed by the Innersound amp. It's a tremendous value. A local audio buddy still uses that exact combination and is quite pleased with it. Unfortunately, I can't say how it would handle the SLs. Can't think of any reason to doubt its capabilities, however.

The JC1s are exceptionally fine amps for SoundLabs. My Ayre monos are better, but on a value basis, the JC1s would win every time.

I honestly believe that you can't go wrong with either amp. If it were me, I'd probably either 1) buy the Innersound and live with it for a while to test its mettle, or 2) funds permitting, buy both (used) and do a long term test. Used prices seem to be very stable and you could easily resell the "loser".

Mike

innersound are you kidding?

Mike,

Thank you for your educated response. I have read every available review on the innersound amp and continue to be suprised at how well it's covered. Very neutral, loads of power and stable throughout the vastly-ranging load the SL's produce. For the money I believe I will look for a used ESL300 for the time being. The JC-1's I believe are a step up but I am not finished with the system yet so that may be an upgrade in the future. As you say, most of these amps have hit bottom or close to it considering depreciation. Thanks again for everything!

Cofeey,

Innersound is no joke. This is the product of Sanders who is now of Sanders Sound. He is well known for pioneering amps specifically designed for low impedences and high resistance. From everything I have read here on Agon from owners on the forums and reviews on line the amp was a deal at $3K new. At close to a grand used it's down right a steal.

My speakers will drop most amps on the market to their knees with very little audible volume produced. There are a handfull of amps out there that will do a great job at running the big Soundlabs, the innersound amp is one of them. And I am not aware of anything even close in the thousand dollar range. If you have some ideas I am all ears.