Threshold, Parasound, Pass Labs or Nakamichi?


I have a question regarding my Arcam AVR350 and adding an amp.

I have been a novice hobbyist for over 20 years and have enjoyed the sound of a Nakamichi TA-2A, Adcom GCD-600 and 700, Nakamichi cassette deck and a number of KEF speakers. First and foremost, I am a diehard KEF fan. I have listened to various B&W 800 series, Wilson Audio and KEF Reference and have recently acquired a pair of KEF Reference 205/2s. I initially hooked them up to my little Nakamichi and loved the sound but obviously needed more power and needed to step up.

Unfortunately I also wanted the convenience of running my TV, DVD, and cable as well as my CD player and tape deck. I consider myself an amateur audiophile who loves music first and wants a home theater second. After a year of research, I found the Arcam AVRs were reviewed as the "best" receiver for sound. I acquired the AVR350 and was surprised. This may sound ridiculous but my 50 watt Nak seemed to produce a fuller and more 3 dimensional soundstage than the 120 watt, in stereo, Arcam. I do realize amps drive the speaker and am unsure of how many amps either of these units produce. I love the simplicity of the Arcam, the ease of use and what it does. However, the music sounds very accurate but "flat". The sound is much more 2 dimensional to me. The bass is significantly less pronounced with the Arcam also. I actually enjoyed the sound of my Nak better.

Hence, my question. I am considering purchasing a used amp and hoping to have the convenience of the Arcam pre-amp with the warmth, body, imaging and soundstage of a better amp. Obviously I am a fan of Nelson Pass's technologies and I am sure my dream system would consist of Pass Labs monos. Realistically, I am wondering if anyone would recommend any of the above amps based on their experience. I am considering a Nakamichi PA-7, Threshold s500 or s500e if I can find one, Parasound HCA3500 and I think my budget is still out of reach of a Pass Labs used amp.
spipa

Showing 1 response by spiro

If you find yourself unable to get the stasis gear, though Pas, and Nak have served me quite well; I'd also say to look at dual mono (same box or two box) AAragon (8008 or Palladium) amps.
It also depends what Pas you like. The Alephs I've owned are said to be sweeter than some of the later bigger amps. I've also heard that Classe can do well when Pas is not budget.