2. amps-preamps
  3. 1149434690

Are ICEpower amps really that good?

Hi folks, it's getting a bit boring now, but I would like to hear your opinions about the following issue. I have the eAR ICEpower based amps (with the ASP1000 modules with built in SMPS). Some audiophiles and amp manufacturers believe they are just trash. In my opinion they are no slouch compared with the almost 8 times more expensive Accuphase A-50V stereo amp. In fact, I prefer the ICEpower amps above the Accuphase. Now I'm a bit in doubt (audiophiles are such weird creatures): are this sub $2k ICEpower amps really that good that they can compete with the $$$ Accuphase amp, or is it due to my own shortcoming (I might have some form of insidious and progressive hearing impairment) or is it just imagination? If the ICEpower amps are really that good, what's the point of buying $$$ amps? Btw, I have Dunlavy SC-V loudspeakers.

Chris
dazzdax

Showing 2 responses by dazzdax

dazzdax OP
599 posts
 
Hi Tvad, if you are right that the ICEpower amps are hyperdetailed, transparent and dead neutral, then we are talking about the best (most honest) amps in the world? Or am I wrong? If some audiophiles don't like the sound, that would mean they don't want a dead neutral sound, with other words, they want a colored sound. You see, it is not very clear to me whether the sound, or better: the non-sound of ICEpower amps is in fact due to lack of distortion or is it due to insufficient rendering of harmonic overtones (fucked up harmonic structure).

Chris
dazzdax OP
599 posts
 
To Hack: Hi, so in your opinion the ICEpower based amps are seriously compromised? What is according to you the most striking about the ICEpower based amp compared to a well designed conventional power amp? Is it the insufficient rendering of harmonic overtones (sterile sounding)? Does it have a "dry" sound, lacking "air"? Is it too bland, too dull or too harsh? Doesn't it have the proper micro- and macrodynamics? Doesn't it have enough PRaT? Personally I don't know what to do (a bit confused I think): if I'm seeking for the sound that is closest to the "master tape" sound, should I use the ICEpower amps, though they are seriously compromised or should I use the Accuphase, because it is a more evolved design (solid state pure class A)?
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