2. misc-audio
  3. 1422986042

Why do my ears ring with my new amplifier?


I just changed integrated amplifiers on January 2, 2015. I went from an Audio Research DSi200 to a Simaudio 600i. I'm running a Lumin A1 Network Streamer and Dynaudio C1 speakers. Those haven't changed. I'm also in the same 10' x 12' room.

My setup sounds great when I'm outside of my room. When I walk in and sit down, my ears start ringing.

I don't think that the high frequencies are the problem. Is this too much bass energy in the room, too much sound pressure, or what do you think?

Does anyone have a suggestion on what's needed to correct this problem?

Thanks,
Chuck
illuminator
schubert
7,386 posts
 
I think you might be practicing medicine without a license to answer this question.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
Assuming your new amp is broken in, moving to the SS amp may be revealing more detail in the upper frequencies. Try moving the speakers around and experiment with different tow in settings. Also, check to make sure your speakers are wired in phase, its an easy mistake to make. Just play a CD you know well and that has a strong centre vocal image. Make sure the voice is still in the centre between the speakers.
illuminator OP
59 posts
 

Thanks Schubert, at least your comment gives validation to your negative feedback.

To everyone else, I'd really like your experience and thoughts.

I have three 2' x 4' x 4" absorption panels on each sidewall. I also have two 2' x 4' x 6" absorption panels behind me, with two 2' x 4' x 4" absorption panels behind the 6" panels, effectively giving me 10" thick panels behind me.

I know that's a lot of absorption, but the sound is crystal clear. Now if I can tame whatever's causing the ringing when I sitting in the room.

Thanks,
Chuck
illuminator OP
59 posts
 

Zd542,

The amp is still breaking in, the dealer said that it will take closer to three months rather than the 400 hours Simaudio states.

The Audio Research DSi200 is not one of their tube amps, it's a SS preamp and a Class D amp. You're right, the upper frequencies are a lot more revealing and natural now. But I don't notice them being overly bright. That's why I don't think that's the problem, although repositioning the toe-in of the speakers sounds logical with the change.

Thanks,
Chuck
illuminator OP
59 posts
 

Zd542,

The speakers are wired in phase. I have vocals that are dead set in the center of the soundstage. All instruments are well defined throughout the soundstage as well, much better than before.

Chuck
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