Crown amps

Ellery911, You may be right. I just don't know that yet, and the only way to find out is to take home a demo which I plan to do next week. I think my LSI/25's are a decent speaker fully capable of revealing the difference's between two amps. The Crown Xti-series are digital at the inputs but analog at the outputs from what I understand. I really can't wait to try this amp if nothing else than to satisfy my own curiosity. Like I said if it's not to my liking, then away it goes. My backup plan is probably an Adcom. But if it is what I'm expecting then I'll walk away with one heck of a deal for $699.00. The fan won't be a big problem, I understand they hardly come on at all in a home setting.

Tony....I did a bit of research on the Crown Xti amps, and the findings are interesting.

It performs A/D conversion at the input, and then rather extensive digital signal processing (DSP). Included is a crossover, a four band equalizer, subharmonic synthsizer, delay, limiter, and gain(digital). After that it does a conversion back to analog which drives a conventional linear power amp. The power supply is a switching type, which some audiophiles don't like. (It has obvious advantages for touring bands, as it will work with a wide range of AC input voltages). As best I can tell there is no provision to bypass the DSP and run the power amp directly. I have never heard this Crown amp, and its sound may be excellent.

The CarverPro ZR1600, which I endorse (and own), takes the opposite approach. It also has various less extensive signal processing features, but implemented by analog circuitry. The processed analog signal drives a digital power amplifier. All the signal processing can be bypassed. The power supply is a conventional design. I have heard the ZR1600, and IMHO its sound is excellent.

Two amps, with similar apearance and aimed at the same customers, but quite different in design concept.

Enjoy playing with the DSP, and tell us what you think.

Well playing with the DSP is out for me seeing how I have Mac. The DSP really doesn't interest me though. The only reason's I'm going for the XTI, and not the XLS series is 1. proportional speed fans, 2. turn on transient muting, and three better looks. I really should check out that Carverpro zr 1600. Is Carver still making pro amps? What's the input sensitivity?

Tony3d...Carver Professional has no relation to Bob Carver, and his designs in the past. The ZR1600 also has muting at turn on and off. See my posting of 12/08 for input sensitivity, fan noise issue, and other considerations.

I used to have a mobile DJ Business & have set up sound systems for night clubs. I have owned and used The Crown DC-300, Phase Linear, QSC, Peavey (Still have my old CS-800)and a few others. These are all great amps and give you the best bang (Watts)for your buck. Over the years I have done some A/B comparisons with this type of amp and home type i.e. (Marantz, HK Signature, Adcom, Conrad Johnson etc.) My preference is for the home type. The sound quality seems much better, especially after long periods of listening.(But that's me) The rest of your set up (CD player, Speakers, preamp, cables) also makes a difference. If you have had a chance to listen to the other brands and types and can not tell a difference Stick with the Crowns you can't go wrong. Happy Listening!!!