2. amps-preamps
  3. 1036097850

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 2 responses by stehno

stehno
1,453 posts
 
This oughtta' be good.

Nice topic Dazzdax.
stehno
1,453 posts
 
I believe Dazzdax to be very perceptive in his observations. Although I may or may not agree with his list. But the list could certainly be expanded to include other brand names.

I also believe Dazzdax was accurate when he limited his observation only to amplifiers. If, in fact, that was his intention.

An amplifier must do so much so right. This is why I believe the amplifier, good or bad, is the key to any system. And this is why I believe a good amplifier can compensate to a good extent for a bad pair of speakers. But a good pair of speakers can never compensate for a bad amplifier.

To answer Dazzdax' question I could only guess that it may have to do with marketing/advertising dollars or commercialism in general, manufacturer's listening preferences, or design flaws with over-compensation, or perhaps even irresponsible jouralism.

There are some recent reviews from Stereophile and TAS on the Halcro amplifiers being the best amplifiers out there. One reviewer thinks perhaps a new Class A+ category should be created for it. Whether these are the best or not I do not know.

But the waxing of accolades and enthusiasm over the sonics and measurements of the Halcro's by these reviewers should be the norm for every one of the amp's on Dazzdax's list and more, rather than the exception. Especially for what some of these manufacturers are charging or overcharging.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think this is the point that Dazzdax is trying to make.

And yes, in the audio world so much is so subjective. But still, that is no excuse for relativism to win out over reality.

-IMO
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