Quote:
Originally Posted by J_bryan /forum/post/15525913
Thank you very much for your input and suggestions. I noticed that the Parasound amp is a Class A/AB amp which generates some heat. What is your opinion on the class D amps which purportedly are more efficient and generate less heat? I've read several positive posts on this forum regarding the ICE amps.
I have wood cabinet that has good ventilation, but heat is certainly a consideration for me.
My own stereo Parasound Halo A21 runs warm, not hot. But I've got it out in the open.
I've seen some recent class D threads on AVS, where a 5-channel NHT Power 5 was given the nod (sound wise) over a 5-channel Parasound Halo A52.
But I'm leary of that... still bleeding edge and all that. I spent a lot of my career on the bleeding edge edge. I also don't like negative learning experiences, even though they are the most meaningful.
Backing up a bit, all of the amps you listed, in your 1st post, likely have enough power to run your speakers, especially given a smallish room.
You can generally get a good sense of how much heat an amp gives off just by looking at it. Does it have huge *externally* exposed fins? If yes, it gives off heat.
I've got an old/used 3 channel Acurus showing up tomorrow. i.e. snow permitting as I'm in Chicago.
It's an AB amp, but doesn't have externally exposed fins (they're internal with heat going through the vented top). Which is why I suggested you might search Audiogon for one of those. The price is right, and even though they are old they have a heck of a reputation.
A good amp... continues to be a good amp. Even though it is old.
Our learning system is seriously flawed; meaning that most people have now bought into the belief that new is synonymous with better/best. Which is simply not true for amp and preamp sound quality.
Cheers