adcom gfa-555 vs parasound hca-1200
slovell -- Wed, 11/11/2009 - 23:43
which is the better sounding of the two and why? anyone have an opinion?
best regards, sam
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I don't know the parasound..
I owned a 555 for a couple of years - ran it on some Klipsch Forte's and my Quad ESL57's...
I can compare (from memory) the sound of the 555 compared to a Quad 405 (recapped)...
The 555 was gutsy/ballsy/punchy - in some ways worked great with the Klipsch - made them get up and boogie
But when connected (carefully!!) to the electrostatics the amps faults were laid bare...
It is a bit rough sounding - edgy, harsh....compared to the Quad
Ultimately the Quad amps are better.
Note that I am not saying the 555 was bad - far from it - nice amp, lots of grunt - but if your speakers are sufficiently revealing - and you play music like classical/Jazz rather than heavier rock - then its probably not the right amp.
I used it for some dance parties - combined with the Klipsches and it was perfect!
best of luck
I once owned an Adcom GFA-555 and concur with "dlaloum"'s assesment. It has lots of power, punch, and dynamics for the price, but isn't the last word in refinement.
I have not heard the Parasound, but I would guess that it's the better-sounding amplifier.
hi robert, i never expected to hear from you personally. i really enjoy your books and your columns, very helpful and informative. i want to put together a modest two channel system for my turntable which is a jvc ql-y66f that i've owned since new. i'm using klipsch kg 5.5's with titanium diaphragms that i've also owned since new. i'm using a cambridge 640p phono preamp and a couple of mc step ups, an audio experience solo and a baterry powered marcof. i already own an adcom gfa 7000 five channel that i'm running everything with, but i'd like to switch my table to a separate two channel with more power. these two amps fall within my budget on the used market, but i'm always open to other options. i like the sound of my adcom, but i've also thought it to be a little grainy and harsh in the top end. i've read that the parasound is a bit sweeter and warmer in its sound and wondered if it would smooth out the horns in my klipsch's a bit. as there is nowhere to go audition equipment in my immediate area, i posted my question hoping to get some informed opinions from others. let me thank you and anyone else who takes time to answer my post.
best regards, sam
The first GFA 555, which was many-many moons ago and many high end stores carried it, was a great amp. After which, it steadily went downhill. Go with the Parasound.
I had a GFA-555 a long time ago also. The descriptions are accurate. Instead of the Parasound, I'd recommend the Vincent SA-331. It is an excellent amp for the money. Check out the Absolute Sound review.
I have an original version Adcom GFA-555, it is a durable perfromer, still running from 1987. Mods are a heavier three prong power cable (replacing the 2 prong zip cord), and new RCA input jacks. It is paired with a Parasound Halo P3, and Monitor Audio Gold Reference 20s and 10s. I am very happy with the performance.
Nice to see your comments Mr. Harley. I echo slovells comments on enjoying your audio books.
Can you please direct me to where you foud the RCA inputs!
Thanks and have a merry Christmas!