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Looking to upgrade Adcom GFA555: Parasound?

This is my third system.  Honestly, usually used for semi-active or background music.

 

Speakers are vintage Wilson Watt/Puppy 7.  Source is an Eversolo dac/streamer Into a vintage Classe DR5 preamp.  Amp currently is the aforementioned Adcom: bought it new while in college 40 years ago!  The sound is pretty good, though a bit “small” and closed in.  

 

Considering replacing the amp with a Parasound A21+.  Thoughts?  Am I wasting my time?
 

Target cost to upgrade this rig: less than $5K.

 

Thanks!

bobbydd
milpai's avatar
milpai
2,668 posts
 

I have the Parasound A21 and absolutely like what I am hearing. Your amplifier seems a bit older. Hence I feel the upgrade to Parasound will feel like quite a big upgrade, especially if you are going to drive the Wilson’s. You might be able to find a used A21+ in your budget.

winoguy17
1,329 posts
 

 For less than $5K you can get a used Parasound JC5. Do that.

hsounds
153 posts
 

Hello, I think a third system should be uncomplicated. I’m thinking a used Luxman integrated. You do not need a DAC because of the EverSolo. Plus, it can be used as a preamp, Amp, and an integrated amp. Plus, The phono stage is decent. I feel the Luxman line will provide you with the same sound but with better detail. If you have a chance to hear it or borrow one I really recommend it for you. I just believe the Parasound is like a nice Amazon Alexa. If you want that sound save yourself a lot of money and buy a few to spread around. 

laginz
50 posts
 

I’d demo the Parasound or something else. For me, at least, the Adcom has always sounded tonally threadbare.

mtnrider
2 posts
 

I'd highly recommend the guys at Musical Concepts, John Hillig has several options for that unit and can even provide new FETS from Exicon that really give that amp significant improvements in the sound quality.

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