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Is the move up to Parasound Halo A21 worth it?

Currently enjoying my B&W CM10s, Parasound A23 and P5. I really love the balanced, open sound that I'm getting from the current setup. However, there are a few areas where I'm seeking improvement. A wider soundstage and more engaging sound at lower than moderate volumes. And, a bit more bass, at any volume, won't hurt either.

I thought of moving up the Parasound chain to an A21, but I have no way of listening to an A21 prior to buying it. Has anyone else here moved from a 23 to 21? If so, did you think the move was worth the extra $$$$? Very interested in knowing what improvements people heard. And yes, I understand that room acoustics and treatments will give you a better bang for your buck. But, unfortunately, my setup is in the family room with very little flexibility. So it is what it is.

On an unrelated note, I was thinking of buying used (couple of current A21 listings here @ agon), but after you take into account shipping and paypal charges, the diminishing returns kick in. I'm struggling to see if net savings of around $500 (over a new one from audio advisor) is worth losing warranty, as Parasound warranty is not transferable. I'm sure these are highly sought after units and the premium is better than other comparative brands, but for me it's not worth the risk. So, I'm now thinking of getting a new one from audio advisor (no tax, no shipping charges) and have the peace of mind that comes with a full warranty.
128x128arafiq
213runnin
914 posts
 
If you found it bland, then there was something in your system that was at fault, or perhaps your speakers didn't blend so well.  The A21 has the detail and imaging I'd been missing.  Better cabling shows up in the sound as well.  

Hey, buy what you like, but if the A21 was a bland or flat amp, it wouldn't have been in production for 12+ years now.  
jl35
3,926 posts
 
Just not my preference. System sounded great with Odyssey, Thor and Pass amps. My point really is to not lay out $2500 for an amp because other people like it.
jl35
3,926 posts
 
I like the A23, the JC-1, and many of the previous generation Parasound, just not the A21.
tswisla
176 posts
 
used Pass X-250
213runnin
914 posts
 
Jl35, your impressions of the A23 are also against what most have found when comparing to the A21. If you liked the A23, then you'd love the A21.  Something was at play there.  Maybe the amp was defective.  Perhaps one of your cables was not seated properly.  Did you have a cold and couldn't hear properly?  I'm telling you, friend, there is no way you could like the A23 and not love the A21.

I've tried it with several pairs of my speakers.  Detail, lush midrange, highs airy but not harsh, I can't get it to sound strained.  It's a killer amp for the money.  
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