Best Amplifier ratings

[trubluluc]

Guys I'm sure this is like asking who makes the best beer....a hundred different opinions. But....of the big names in audio, could I get some opinions on the following criteria:

1.Quality of sound.
2. Quality of build
3. Reliability/ warranty
4. Design aesthetics

thanks,

-Luc

[gatemplin]

3. Reliability/Warranty:
Bryston Amps have a 20 Year warranty

[trubluluc]

Bryston Amps...I've heard of them, but haven't seen any . I'll check it out.

What is thought about Parasound?

-Luc

[gatemplin]

Never heard them myself (Parasound) but
they are well regarded and seem to be a very good value.

Bryston is a Canadian company. I have heard the 3B, and 4B amps (with PMC speakers) and they sound great to me, amazing detail.

[steveinaz]

Parasound is highly regarded and has a 10 year warranty if purchased thru an authorized dealer.

[trubluluc]

I've always liked their look...as much as that matters...I've only heard the 2 channel amp, but they seem to be reasonably priced compared to Krell and others. Someone posted a link for B-stock that seemed pretty decently priced.

-Luc

[dorokusai]

I am a self admitted Parasound-aholic. It's a great amp, and really a top performer. I have heard most of their amps, including the vintage gear.

They have a heavy bottom end, typical of large block Class A amplifier designs. Midrange is defined, but neither highs or mids really sparkle IMO. It's an amp for anything power hungry, just check out the spec's for a HCA-1500A, as an example.

The HALO line really starts to open up the upper ranges for sonics. Signature bottom end with some real clear midrange was my impression.

There are high qulaity components in either series, that you won't find in more expensive manufacturers. Vishay, Harris, Muse...just to name a few.

[LuSh]

Bryston
Sim Audio Moon
Classe'
Blue Circle

[Zero]

Musical Fidelity.

I have always been partial to this brand since I first heard them over a year ago. While I have come to find that their retail price tag is hefty and over zealous, on the used market, they will hold their weight in gold. Cosmetically dashing, rock solid construction, reliable, and good sound to boot.

Arcam

Another company with the classic Brittish sound.

NAD

Yep, Nad. There is no "prestigue" appeal here. But their sound is unique and smooth. Many people have found synergy with NAD components and their gear. I came freightningly close with my system. I used to over-look them, but since then I have found a whole new respect for what they bring to the table. Best part about this gear is, its affordable. The downside is, its not nearly as pretty to look at, as those listed above.

[trubluluc]

must admit I've never heard of them,
but I like the name;)

what is the "classic British sound?

-Luc

[PolkWannabie]

Best is mucho subjective in almost any category you'd like to pick ... Best that you get your listen on to as many that you can find and afford and best that you don't know what you are listening to until after you've made your evaluation on any given piece of gear.

[dorokusai]

Tru - My definition of classic British sound would be very rich, clean midrange, tight percussion, and somewhat flat, un-exciting high-end. You don't often hear the term sibilance attributed to this kind of gear.

[F1nut]

Luc,

For your viewing pleasure.......http://www.musicalfidelity.com/

[jazznsoccer]

Also take a look at Rotel. The RMB-1905 gets very good price/performance marks from most reviews. I've heard the Rotel drive good quality speakers with authority and real tight sound.

[trubluluc]

Some major power there.
Have to admit I prefer black componentry,
but dig the blue light thing.
Rotel is definitely nice stuff as well.

Most of this stuff seems to be out of my price range...$1200. tops, but I plan to buy used so hopefully I can get something nice.
I like high quality stuff, but I like a deal almost as much.
I'm just looking for advice on what to watch for in a nice 2channel amp setup.

thanks all,

-Luc

[dorokusai]

Well, you had most of the perfect suggestions allready :) Good luck.

[F1nut]

With a cap of $1200.00 I'd go for the Bryston 4B-ST, Classe CA-200 or the Parasound HCA-1500A, used of course.

A couple more to look at, the McCormack DNA-1 and the Conrad-Johnson MF-2300A.

[tryrrthg]

Good call on the McCormack F1nut! but don't for get the DNA 0.5 ;) I've read many places where people think the 0.5 sounds better than the DNA 1. I haven't heard the DNA 1 but McCormack makes some great amplifiers!

[F1nut]

You are absolutely right, please excuse my oversight. :)

I should add that Steve McCormack has a host of upgrades to his amps that can be done in steps or all at once.

[tryrrthg]

ahh yes, I forgot to mention the upgrades at

www.smcaudio.com

From what I've read (in many places) a modified McCormack DNA amplifer with Revision A can compete with the big boy amps at ANY price.

[gmorris]

Don't miss out on Anthem.

Same company that makes Paradigm speakers.

I find Anthem amps & pre-amps to be very detailed, and utterly clean sounding. Incredible soundstage depth. Not the most musical amp, would never be called warm. Also very affordable. Check out the Anthem PVA-2. 125W/channel, about $600, NEW! I like Anthem ALOT. I'm thinking of getting the Parasound PHP-850 Preamp with an Anthem PVA-2 amp.

[I-SIG]

That might be a nice combo, gmorris.

Wes

[gmorris]

Originally posted by I-SIG
That might be a nice combo, gmorris.

Wes

I think so. I like the Anthem PVA-2 very much. I don't like the Anthem TLP-1 Pre/amp so much though. It has great sound, but as far as features, I would rather go with the Parasound. I don't like the fact it has a tuner. I never use it, and it can only add noise to the circuitry. Also, it doesn't have a detachable power cord. And it has a bunch of circuits for Bass Management that I'd never use, again, degrades the signal path, IMO.

I've heard nothing but the highest praises for the Parasound PHP-850. I think feature wise it is a better Pre/Amp for me. I've never actually heard the Parasound amps, but I have heard the Anthem amps. If I could get a chance to listen to a Parasound amp, I may decide to go with a Parasound Pre/Amp & amp, but for now, I'm thinking Para. Pre & Anthem amp.