A newer version of Monoblock is being released soon. Or so I keep hearing from Parasound. This could be one reason for the prices of JC1 to drop further.
Why did Parasound discontinue the Halo JC-1 monoblock amplifiers?
Why did Parasound discontinue the Halo JC-1 monoblocks?
I am relatively new to this era of audio, but I find myself drawn to monoblock amps. From what I read, I should experience the Parasound Halo JC-1 monoblocks. You know, the amplifiers that remained on Stereophile's A list for 18 or 19 years? I see them come up for sale at a relatively reasonable price, in the $4K - $5K range. I am debating about trying them versus purchasing the Moon by SimAudio 400M monoblocks new. Currently, I'm streaming Tidal and Qobuz using the SimAudio 390D streamer/DAC/pre into Kinki Studios EX B7 monoblocks, with GoldenEar Triton One loudspeakers. End game will be Wilson Audio Yvette unless something else comes along before I can bring myself to spend this much on a pair of speakers. Thanks for your responses.
I am relatively new to this era of audio, but I find myself drawn to monoblock amps. From what I read, I should experience the Parasound Halo JC-1 monoblocks. You know, the amplifiers that remained on Stereophile's A list for 18 or 19 years? I see them come up for sale at a relatively reasonable price, in the $4K - $5K range. I am debating about trying them versus purchasing the Moon by SimAudio 400M monoblocks new. Currently, I'm streaming Tidal and Qobuz using the SimAudio 390D streamer/DAC/pre into Kinki Studios EX B7 monoblocks, with GoldenEar Triton One loudspeakers. End game will be Wilson Audio Yvette unless something else comes along before I can bring myself to spend this much on a pair of speakers. Thanks for your responses.
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why do you say that the JC-5 can’t drive a 4ohm load when bridged?He probably meant, it would be stressed doing it, as all measured parameters that make for a good amp take a quite a hit when you bridge. All you gain is wattage in bridging, might as well get a PA amp, like a $350 3000w Behringer. Cheers George |
I think it’s a healthy thing to discontinue a model after ten years or so. At least, change a few parts and call it the "Mk II’. Nobody wants to purchase a used in-production model that may be twenty years old (the BAT VK-300 integrated amp was made for the better part of twenty years). Of course, you can call the maker with a serial number and ask for date it was built. |
I auditioned both the JC-1 and JC-5 and thought the JC-5 sounded better. Both are great amps, and the JC-1 certainly has more current reserves, but the JC-5 is a powerful amp and, imo, adds a bit more clarity and vocals sound a bit more natural. @mijostyn - why do you say that the JC-5 can't drive a 4ohm load when bridged? I agree that it is current limited into this kind of load, but I haven't read anywhere that it can't drive it at all. My current speakers are quite efficient, so the JC-5 is just loafing along and sound fabulous. |
kcpellethead, according to JC himself they are working on a new version. The JC 5 is not a replacement. It can not even drive a 4 ohm load bridged. The JC 1 is a landmark product. It is easily the best sounding and performing amp at anywhere near the price. I would not hesitate to by a pair 8 years old or less in scratch less condition. The Moon's are great amps but may or may not sound better than the JC 1s. If getting the JC 1s will get you closer to the Wilson's then by all means. Mike |
They likely made a decision to drop the item from their lineup because nor people are likely to buy the lower cost amps. Yep, people’s buying habits change, not to mention the availability of parts. That is, transistors, transformers, even passive components change due to forces out of your control. It would make sense for JC and Parasound to look at their market and ask if they can make a better amp with more current parts. But the president of Parasound is a really nice guy, I’m sure if someone asked him he’d explain the decision. :) |
They seem to have replaced them with the JC 5. Having a stereo amp, which can be bridged, serves a larger audience than pure monoblocks. https://parasound.com/jc5.php Best, E |