Changed amps - center image moved


I recently changed amplifiers from TRL Samson (monos) to Maker Audio Ref 2A stereo amp.  Both amps are superb but using the same associated equipment (DAC preamp, sources, speakers) my center image changed significantly.  I did go from single ended to balanced interconnects.  The Maker has a much wider image (well beyond outside of speaker but the center image is diffuse (not specific).  Also, with the Maker amp, more sound comes directly from the speaker (very little w the Samsons).  The TRL Samsons had a specific center image but more narrow width (very little outside of speaker).   In a perfect world, I would have the specific center image plus the ultra wide space.  Anyone experienced a similar situation and how (were) you able to optimize.  Don't get me wrong though, the Maker is fabulous in every aspect....killer detail without edginess, dynamics that are breathtaking.

Just trying to figure ways to re-attain the center image specificity.  Suggestions?


jeffga

Showing 2 responses by atmasphere

It is also possible that the amp itself could have one channel wired out of phase with the other. With balanced equipment this is very easy to do by mistake!

I would reverse the speaker connections on one channel only just to see what happens. Does the center image improve? Is there less information sitting in the speakers and more spread out between them? If so, then we will know that there is indeed a phase problem, and the next step will be to find out where it is.
The next step is to get rid of the adapters, perhaps having the XLRs installed on the ends of your existing cables.

I find that adapters often eat some of your dynamic impact, and its an easy thing to fix.