Audiophilepure

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“My unit came loaded in its Selekt DSM Katalyst with Integrated Power Amplifier guise ($8,625 USD as configured) with all the options available in the two-channel model (if you want Surround Sound, there are differing processing and input/output options). This included the base network music player, an upgraded Katalyst spec’d DAC, built-in digital preamplifier section driving an bespoke Linn-designed, 100-watt/channel bridged Class-D power amplifier – an option not seen in either the Klimax or Akurate models. This integrated design is shared only with the Majik configuration (90-watt Chakra amplification for Majik) in the DSM lineup. Connected support (no wi-fi or Bluetooth here, Linn believes in the sanctity of the wired connection for the highest quality sound possible) is native for FLAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, AIFF, WMA (not lossless), MP3, AAC and OGG all up to 24-bit/192kHz along with DSD 64 and DSD128. THD+N is a rated 0.0002 per cent for line-out and 0.001 per cent for the power amp section with a listed dynamic range of 117dB/110dB respectively.”

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“In a straight comparison of the MA252’s internal phono stage with the standalone Parasound JC-3, the internal unit was understandably less capable, but I wouldn’t make too much of it. It still sounded highly enjoyable and gave every indication of being able to accommodate a better cartridge than the Linn K18-ii in use. Its performance when used with an SUT-coupled low output MC was detailed and satisfying. As for the headphone output, I also had little to complain about – it handled a Sennheiser HD650 well enough, with good space and depth perceived, so should be adequate for most users.

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“When my US-made, 250-wpc Acurus amplifier fell victim to a lightning strike seven years ago, I took a serious chance and went over to the dark side with a Chinese-made, 250-wpc Emotiva XPA-2. Essentially because it was the best amp I could afford, and my Maggies needed lotsa watts. My happiness with that amp led me to take an even bigger chance on the pair of 35-watt XPA-1L’s, which I hoped would pair well with the new Zu Omens (they did!). For me, even thinking about dropping down to 3 watts per channel with the Leeloos required a tremendous leap of faith! Totally no worries; the ampsandsound Leeloos are perfectionist-built amplifiers with ample power to drive highly efficient speakers to at-or-near reference levels—with the Zu loudspeakers, they’re a match made in heaven. And they employ time-honored construction practices from the golden age of tube glory; if you have the financial means, you won’t be disappointed in any aspect of their performance. And for high-end headphone users seeking the grail, these amps could very well satisfy your thirst for that very elusive cup. Very highly recommended!”

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

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‘Having previously reviewed the Wells Akasha and Innamorata amplifiers, and now the Commander Tube Preamplifier, I agree with Jeff Wells’ declaration that his components eschew fancy packaging in favor of fancy designs and parts selection. Wells Audio is a company that is trying to give the enthusiast a component that performs at a high level without the sky-high price tag. Looking inside the unit one sees upper grade parts and a clean, smart layout. I have always been one who could accept a component that is well designed and sounds great, even if the case is economical. I have learned over the years to prioritize power supply and signal path over nearly every other parameter, and that principle has served me well; it also serves Wells Audio customers well.”

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“For some audiophiles the highest praise that can be heaped upon a discrete solid-state or Class D amplifier is that is sounds “tube-like.” My position is different. I prefer a power amplifier that attempts to sound as invisible as possible—a straight wire with gain, to repeat that old audio cliché. The C-100S stereo amp provided more than enough power to drive all the loudspeakers I threw at it and did so in a way that allowed each loudspeaker’s unique personality to come to the fore. I suppose if you want an amplifier that has “personality” you should look elsewhere. But if you need a harmonically neutral power amplifier that you can attach to a wide variety of loudspeakers, the C-100S would be an excellent choice. And priced at $1500, the C-100S stereo power amplifier ranks as a “best buy” in my world.”

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Inviting the Legacy Powerbloc2 into my home was an educational and rewarding experience for this lover of tube gear. It is light weight, solid, well-built and very powerful. Frequency response is flat and tight across the entire audible spectrum. It is also very revealing of interconnects and power cords coming into it as well as speaker cables going out. It responded favorably to aftermarket footers and fuses. Its reasonable price will attract many who are looking for something above entry level to the high end and it will grow with you as you invest in better cables and a few tweaks.”

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The Chorus 5200 XD amplifier was able to drive my speakers effortlessly, like I rarely hear with any multichannel amplifier, delivering a level of control that matched that of my massively overpowered Crown I-Tech 8000 amplifier Simultaneously, it delivered reference quality sound that was well refined, balanced, and utterly articulate. While $9,500 is quite a substantial amount to spend on a home theater amplifier, the Krell Chorus 5200 XD is unsurpassed by competition in or near its price range, at least in my experience. If you are looking for a top-shelf home theater amplifier under $10,000, the Krell Chorus 5200 XD amplifier should be the first place you stop to listen.
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The Pictor and Taurus are also paradoxical in performance in that they at once reveal all the performance criteria in a loudspeaker while bringing out its musical enjoyment. This left me stumped, as these are typically polar opposites; an amplifier that’s ‘revealing’ is often musically barren, while an amplifier that turns every session into an entertaining jaunt through your collection is routinely masking the limitations inherent to the speaker design. The Constellation Audio duo are unique in they show you exactly what your equipment is doing honestly and accurately, and yet make that experience as musically satisfying as it can be. Meaning it is at once the perfect tool for the designer wanting to know where the next speaker can be improved and the salesperson wanting to make their speakers sound great – that is a first, and bespeaks of the quality and accuracy of the Constellation Audio sound.”