New Adcom GFA-555 se - Special Edition

Picked up one of these amps last week to match a pair of used KEF C20's I just picked up which need a high power/high current amp. My EL-34 tube amp just didn't match up well. After some hours of listening I'm pretty impressed. For a moderate cost solid state amp, it's pretty good and it sounds like it's got a lot left even at fairly loud volume. Not as transparent or "musical" as a good tube amp, but definitely not fatigue inducing either, and the bass is better, especially on the KEFs.

Mjcmt: It's not a class A amp. It runs pretty much stone cold at idle, and I've only gotten it a bit warm to the touch at the highest volume I'm inclined to listen at. Perhaps the marketing dept. did not understand basic amp classes and meant it was "Grade A" ???

Jim W.

Jim,
Good to read about you positive assessment of the SE version. Keep us informed as it breaks in.
Thinking about the Class A rating, the amp could also have a Class A input stage then AB after that.

Minor update: While chasing ground loops -I gave the balanced inputs another chance.Not sure what's changed - but I am now very happy with what's comin in thru the balanced inputs.And at least i don't have to waste time with poor connections on the RCA side of things.

Stonedeaf,
I'm curious, what does the rest of your system consist of?

I've had a 555 - original model - for more than 20 years. The only problem I've had with it is the power switch is in the On position.

It ran a pair of MGIIs and now a pair of Paradigm Signature S8s. It sounds fine - I've never had any complaint with it.

A truly amazing product for the money.