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ICE amps vs analog amps for bass

I'm currently running Legacy Helix loudspeakers. The bass and subwoofers are being driven by two pair of 500 watt ICE amplifier modules while the Midrange and treble frequencies are being driven by two pair of Levinson 436 amplifiers. While originally auditioning the speakers I heard them with analog amps on the bass, treble, and midrange sections and the sound was superb. However, I was assured that the ICE amps would be sufficient to drive the bass sections so I've given them a try. However the bass sounds funny. I don't hear the impact, definition, and subtle "spatial cues" that I know are in the recordings.
I partially am blaming the ICE modules. I'd sure like some input in solving the problem. I can "upgrade" to "analog" amps for the bass if I choose, but for space reasons and economic reasons, would prefer to continue to use the ICE amps. I'm considering Parasound JC-1s, or Bryston 7bs, for the bass if I switch.
Thanks for your help in advance.
Steve
128x128sgr

Showing 5 responses by coffeey

coffeey's avatar
coffeey
363 posts
 
No problem,i mean my amp is like 75 and as i said if its on the recording that's how it comes out,it depends on the recording.So also what im saying is i wonder if the bass from ice amps is really realistic or not,or are people just wowed by the big bad wham of these ice amps.It never impressed me.
coffeey's avatar
coffeey
363 posts
 
i had two dig. amps,Bass was extremely powerful and pretty detailed,but when it got right down to it it was just way to much,all anybody hears about is the high damping factor,,blah blah blah.Now i have a Counterpoint amp,do i at times want a bit more bass sure i do.What i found is bass and quality of it is way way more dependent on the RECORDING if its strong on the recording,its more then good enough on my system,I think my damping factor is 75.
coffeey's avatar
coffeey
363 posts
 
There we go with damping factor again.
coffeey's avatar
coffeey
363 posts
 
My Counterpoint doubles from 100 watts 8 ohms to 200 watts 4 ohms,by coincidence i have Legacy studio monitors and yes they are efficient,like i said earlier,while i am satisfied with the bass it really could be a bit more defined ,louder whatever you want to call it,so with my scenario could my set up be on the order of what Atmas spere wrote about?
coffeey's avatar
coffeey
363 posts
 
Thanks and when writing before i think you were referring more to the high damping of the ice amps if i'm correct.Also am i correct in that a lot of people think they can get more out of the recording then there really is on it in the first place?
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