2. amps-preamps
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high-end vs. ultra high-end amplifiers

It is quite frustrating to know that some amplifiers (Boulder, FM Acoustics, Accuphase) are sounding better than even very expensive ones from the big boys (Mark Levinson, Krell, Bryston, Spectral). I wonder why there is such a difference. Madrigal, Krell, Bryston, Spectral, they all belong to the high-end sector of audio industry and they are claiming they are making the best amplifiers. But I know that this is not true: I've heard amplifiers from Boulder and FM Acoustics and they sound just better than the Madrigals, Krells and so on. Is it because Boulder and FM Acoustics have more know how about amplifier design (I suppose not) or do they use more expensive parts and better circuit topologies? Do they have brighter technicians and designers? There must be an explanation for this phenomenon. It isn't magic! Maybe someone from the audio industry can reply to this thread.
dazzdax

Showing 1 response by dazzdax

dazzdax OP
599 posts
 
Hi Kirian,

While the so called high-end amplifiers are sounding quite nice, I think the most natural sound comes from the very expensive ones (from the ultra high-end companies like Boulder, FM Acoustics and Accuphase). I know that these amplifiers might be too expensive, but it is difficult to specify a price for such devices, which are capable of giving a very realistic impression of sound as in real life.
I just wonder if the top high-end manufacturers like Krell and Mark Levinson are able to make their amplifiers sound as beautiful as those from Boulder. Maybe, maybe not.

dazzdax
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