2 channel Amplifier choice

[Dave38]

I'm deciding between a Bryston and a Parasound Amplifier to drive the LSi-15's. I'm currently driving them with a Adcom GFA-II and don't quite like the sound. Looking for more punchier Bass. What are your opinions on these 2 amps? Thanks.

P.S. I am using a Sony TA-E9000ES for a pre-pro. Wondering if that's not my problem. I also notice I have to turn the volume up quite a bit for decent sound. Almost like not enough input signal to the amp. No gain control on the Adcom either.

[ND13]

Loved my old P-Sound...can't really go wrong there.

[McLoki]

Both are solid amps - but based on reputation alone I would have to go with Bryston. (have not heard either)

With that being said - I would say test out a new pre before you spend your money on a new amp. Not that the amp won't help, but I don't know if I would say it is your weakest link...

[janmike]

It's tough to beat the Bryston warranty.

[heiney9]

Of the 3 the Adcom should have the punchiest bass. My number 1 rec. to anyone swapping gear to get better results; always keep what you have until you are sure the change is what you wanted.

I'm not a big P-sound fan (personally) I say try the Bryston, but the bass control and punch on the Adcom is going to be hard to better.


H9

P.s. McLoki makes a great point.

[ND13]

Never had a single issue with "lack of punchy bass" with the HCA 1200 II, through several different brands of speakers. No sub used either.

[GV#27]

Which Bryston model?Brystons except for maybe the little 2B LP are highly acclaimed for their solid bass reproduction.

[Zero]

Bryston is an excellent match with the Lsi series. Go for it.

[shack]

Bryston is an excellent match with the Lsi series. Go for it.

I tend to agree. Parasounds are very nice (I especially like their Halo series) but given the fact that the LSi series is known to be a bit laid back and the Brystons are known to be a bit analytical...I think this would be an excellent marriage...producing something in the middle. Plus a 20 year lifetime transferable warranty is a nice thing to have.

[Dave38]

Which Bryston model?

The 4B SST.

[Dave38]

I would say test out a new pre before you spend your money on a new amp. Not that the amp won't help, but I don't know if I would say it is your weakest link...

I'm looking at replacing the Sony TA-E9000ES early next year. I'll try that swap first before looking for another amp. If I'm still not satisfied, I will have to make a decision on a different amp.

[wingnut4772]

I just picked up a Parasound HCA 1500 and I was shocked at how well it drove my Von Schweikerts - especially the bass. I think I will pick up another Parasound for the Ht when I am ready.

[beardog03]

I am a big Para Fan..!!

I have the HCA-3500 for two channel.....
I have the 2205a for HT....great bass...drives the LSi`s with no problem
I have a HCA-1000 in the Garage unit !

THe 1000 is a great little unit, but compared to the bigger brothers in the other rigs....well....I still have great bass response...

I do not have any experience with the other amps, but I understand the Bryston is a solid amp..

Nothing against Adcom though...I understand they are real work horses....just not sure about the sound


It all starts with the source, of course...and the amp is well, the workhorse !!







Okay, I vote for the Parasound, just because thats all I know !!!!

[GV#27]

The 4B SST. That is a great amp with state of the art bass and with SST series the overall sound is more refined and neutral than the previous ST and NRB series.You can't go wrong with one of those.

[Spacedeckman]

That is a great amp with state of the art bass and with SST series the overall sound is more refined and neutral than the previous ST and NRB series.You can't go wrong with one of those.

I haven't heard a newer Adcom, so I can't comment there. I've got a HCA750 plugging a hole now, but have had the big Halo two channel, a 3BSST and a pair of 7BSST monos in my current system. The Halo was a bit laid back, smooth, and very likable, a great amp by any measure. The Brystons are "punchier", tighter and better defined on the bottom end, but as stated, more analytical. What you play is what you get. The goal is to replace the 750 with a 4BSST, although the budget may hold it back to a 3BSST

Mark

[polkseller]

buy the adcomm 565 preamp

slam
big bass nice sound

[avguytx]

I guess being the "Carver" fan of the group, I'd have to put my vote in for one of those. I use the M-1.0t pretty exclusively on my SDA's but these other guys may know better for an amp to driver the LSi's. I have no experience with those speakers. I own 2 (soon to be 3) M-1.0t's and 2 M-1.5t's. They may end up doing HT duty one of these days when I get a new Pre Pro. Something about 200 X 7 or 350 X 7 just sounds good!

[shack]

I guess being the "Carver" fan of the group, I'd have to put my vote in for one of those.

The question is:

"Between these TWO amps, which is better for my Lsi15's...Bryston or Parasound?"

And the answer is:

"Carver"

:confused:

[dorokusai]

That's a Club Polk answer Shack, what's so suprising? The cost effective answer was clearly Parasound.

[SolidSqual]

Get a new preamp. Getting rid of the sony and getting a good preamp will solve your problem

[shack]

That's a Club Polk answer Shack, what's so suprising?

I know.

[cfrizz]

:DLOL! God love us Polkies. Give us a question with 2 options & we will come up with options 3, 4, 5, 6, & 7 just to make things more complicated!:eek::D