Amp/Preamp Asylum: REVIEW: Parasound A-23 Amplifier (SS) by pictureguy

Model:	A-23
Category:	Amplifier (SS)
Suggested Retail Price:	$850
Description:
Manufacturer URL:	Parasound
Model Picture:	View

Review by pictureguy on June 15, 2014 at 12:04:45
IP Address: 174.68.76.189 Add Your Review
for the A-23

Replacing a PSAudio 'd' integrated of 500x2 with a PAIR of the A23 was one of the best moves I've ever made. Fast? Accurate? Good rhythm? yes and yes
The channel level controls are an EASY way to tame the brightness some note with Magnepan 1.6s which most tame with a resistor in the jumper loop. No need of that now, even if I hadn't done the proper setup and have no brightness issues. I'd judge more extended highs with less beaming than from the 'd' amp, as well.

No need for signal splitters, either, in my setup. I run a single @single ended TO the amp and a very short jumper using the 'loop out' to the OTHER input. Nice.

OH, BTW, the MSRP is now 995$ after a modest bump in the last 60 days.

Stage / image is super. Much more 'space' than the 'd' and with good recordings extends around and with good depth. Instruments are in real space.

These amps are keepers and the next project will be a PAIR of amp stands of novel design.

There are 3 ways to turn on the amp. The 12v trigger from the preamp. Signal Sense with variable sensitivity and the front panel power switch. Amp turns off about 5 minutes after signal removed

Product Weakness:	None apparent
Product Strengths:	Loves my panels

Associated Equipment for this Review:

Amplifier: A23 Parasound
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated): P5 Parasound
Sources (CDP/Turntable): CA DACMagic+ / PS3
Speakers: Magnepan MG1.6
Cables/Interconnects: BJC / Mogami
Music Used (Genre/Selections): Rock, Jazz, Progressive, Oldies
Room Size (LxWxH): 14 x 24 x 9
Room Comments/Treatments: minimal. No traps or diffusion
Time Period/Length of Audition: 60 days
Other (Power Conditioner etc.): Panamax
Type of Audition/Review: Product Owner
Your System (if other than home audition): mine

Amplifier:	A23 Parasound
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	P5 Parasound
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	CA DACMagic+ / PS3
Speakers:	Magnepan MG1.6
Cables/Interconnects:	BJC / Mogami
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Rock, Jazz, Progressive, Oldies
Room Size (LxWxH):	14 x 24 x 9
Room Comments/Treatments:	minimal. No traps or diffusion
Time Period/Length of Audition:	60 days
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	Panamax
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner
Your System (if other than home audition):	mine