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 1 response by douglas_schroeder

Why is there so much concern about a center image changing with an amp change as though something has to be wrong with the rig? What jeffga has described is typical; every component has its own set of sonic characteristics. The description of more sound coming from the speakers is not out of character for switching amps; some have more of this than others. He didn't say there was a gross diminishment in the sound or that the center image had grown fuzzy, merely that it was more diffuse and larger. That is certainly not a concern as though something is wrong with the setup. 

Having worked with dozens of amps I assure you that such changes are common and to be expected. This is a very regular occurrence for me, and it is not the result of mis-wiring or another problem in the rig. The proper attitude should be to suspect something wrong if one swapped amps and perceptually nothing changed! The interconnects also influence the spatial characteristics of the sound, and moving from RCA to XLR can do so, as well as different brands/models. When you change both amp and cables you had better hear a significantly different sound, or else you have wasted your money/time (Unless the new component/cables are significantly cheaper and result in similar sound quality - but this is rare). 

jeffga, you said, "In a perfect world, I would have the specific center image plus the ultra wide space." I smiled when I saw that. This is the world of the audiophile; when you hear one setup with characteristics you enjoy, then change the rig, you have a shift in system characteristics, some more pleasurable, and some less. Welcome to crafting an audio system! It's an art that sometimes takes a while until you get everything just so. I suggest you revisit positioning, i.e. toe in, of speakers to get a ready solution to the center image, which may get you to the happy compromise sound between size and precision of center image. :)