AGD Duet Monoblocks

@bartsw 

I agree with you -- but to be clear, I’m not saying that this is a giant killer.

I agree that I haven’t seen these replace much more expensive gear, either. My point was that if these little amps are this good -- at this price -- then change is *coming.* 

I also agree that they are not audiophile class -- but again, consider their size and price and they are not what you would have gotten if you paid this ten years ago.

Imagine a young person who loves music but has an apartment and college loan to pay for -- with a couple decent speakers, this would be a very good solution, from an audio perspective.

These amps are, I suspect, a harbinger.

@campoly "I’m not pushing Fosi and after actually spending some time with them, I’m certainly not going to discourage anyone from trying them for themselves."

100% what I’m saying. Well put.

@joeycastillo Benchmark AHB2 is an amp I've had in this system for a while -- the Fosi's sound just as good. Probably due to my speakers, other factors, etc. And I bet the build quality on the Benchmark is better, but to me, it sounds lifeless/flat/dull. I prefer my Pass ($5k) and my modded Quicksilvers ($4k) but again, I'm not trying to compare apples to oranges. Unless it's the Benchmark, in which case, put me on Team Fosi.

@aw-agd the High Road always has the best view… excellent response.

The Fosi mono and stereo amplifiers (both with and without op amp upgrades) are interesting but having listened to them extensively, on multiple systems and in several treated rooms over many, many sessions, I cannot consider them an end game solution. Amazing for their size and simplicity but outclassed, to varying degrees by many other designs. 

@lance348 - I actually own the Gryphon 120. I have it paired with Buchardt S400MKii speakers and a Merason Dac1 MKII. In that system, it's fantastic. Beautiful sounding amp with those other components. 

I also own the AGD Audions which I purchased used. The AGD Audions are now my primary amps in my living room. I have them paired with Dynaudio Heritage Speakers and a Soulnote D2 dac. The synergy is fantastic. 

The grypon 120 amp is a little on the dark side. With the right speakers, it's magical. The AGD Audions are end game amps in my living room. They just do everything well. I can only imagine the Duets are superb. 

I can also attest to Alberto being a gentleman and offering superior service. While I'd purchased my AGD amps used, he kindly and promptly answered my emailed questions. 

AGD is a top notch outfit. 

@hilde45 @campoly  it’s just that those Fosi amps are ’desktop’ amps. If they are used as as main amps, beyond their design, they will crack under load and possibly damage your high-end speakers. Also anything mechanical is not built to last like real ’audiophile’ gear.

@aw-agd 

your comment is appreciated. I’ll make it a point to stop back by at CAF26.