Cool Amps Needed for Eggleston Savoy's

iceh2oaudio.com

The H2O is much less expensive than the Rowland 301, but gives nothing away to the Rowland sound wise, according to listeners. Unlike the Rowland, the H2O utilizes a big analog power supply, while the Rowland is fitted with a digital power supply. Looking at B&O's web site, we are told the ICE module is analog. Analog to analog sounds like a natural fit to me. It sure works sonically. I use to own Pass X-600 amps. There is no looking back with the H2O. I sincerely feel this may very well be my last amp.

The X600 was powering my 1 ohm Apogee Scintillas. I had used the X-150 on Apogee Duetta, and liked the sound very much, at the time. I figured, if the X600 can't be the best amp for the Scintillas, what could? We are talking about a lot of power. I still had my 4 ohm Duettas, when the X600 arrived. The sound was warmer, and fuller with the X600. A reviewer friend of mine liked the X150 better.

A fellow Scintilla owner told me he had tried an ICE powered eAR amp on his speakers, and it was the best sound he had ever heard. I didn't believe him at first. How could a little cold amp sound better than two behemoths with Supersymmetry? I took a chance anyway, and found the fellow had been too modest. The eAR gave better bass, and much clearer upper octaves.

When a fellow Scintilla owner, and talented amp builder came out with his own ICE powered amp, I didn't hesitate. I have the H2O Signature monos. These are the best. They sell for $5,500 direct. They are not in a pretty box, but they will power anything with the most stunningly real sound I have ever heard. check out the reviews at Agon, the Asylum, and at the ICEH2O site.

I feel I should note most H2O owner reviews are about their S-250 amp, a
$2,500 amp.

At what price can one expect to pay for the "Boze?" BTW, is that
an unfortunate choice of name, or has Tact merged with Bose?

One thing that bothers me about TacT, is that there is no freedom in
choosing one's DAC. For instance, I much prefer the sound of non-
upsampling DACs. I don't think one DAC fits all. One thing that audiophiles
love to do, is tweak their systems.

At least one H2O owner is enjoying both worlds. He is using a TacT preamp
for room correction, and the H2O for excellent sound.