Amp/Preamp Asylum: REVIEW: Response Audio RAM501 Signature Integrated Amplifier (Tube) by bleeb

Model:	RAM501 Signature
Category:	Integrated Amplifier (Tube)
Suggested Retail Price:	$1400
Description:	100 wpc Integrated Hybrid Class
Manufacturer URL:	Not Available
Manufacturer URL:	Not Available

Review by bleeb ( A ) on March 17, 2003 at 16:18:45
IP Address: 199.183.74.139

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for the RAM501 Signature

Last October, I purchased Paradigm Reference Studio 60s to begin the journey of upgrading my 13-year-old stereo system. The Paradigms replaced my aging but awesome Enegy Pro 22s, and provided a somewhat more transparent sound. Well, my Denon DRA625RA receiver had always been too harsh at the top end, noisy, with no soundstage, so I began my search for an integrated. I demoed a used Krell KAV 300iL ($2150), a new Musical Fidelity A300 ($1395), and the YBA Integre DT ($2050), all ss units. My favorite was the YBA - the Krell was a powerhouse, but too analytical - the Musical Fidelity was too musical, or colored. The YBA has a stunning open and three-dimensional soundstage - I was quite impressed. Then I happened upon reviews for the Jolida hybrid integrateds, and noted their price. Well, I was peaked, and called the often-regaled Bill Baker of Response Audio for some info. After a few more calls and some over-analytical research, I went for the hot-rodded version of the Jolida 1501, Response Audio's own RAM501 Signature. This was not really a modified amp, as it was planned to be totally redesigned by Modwright. Now, I had never listened to even the stock Jolida, so I was taking a leap of faith with the RAM501. Since I ordered the first RAM501, there was no prototype or white paper. But Bill was so confident about the RAM product, and folks just praised his way of doing business, that I felt at ease with the decision. Well it arrived rather quickly for a new rig, and out of the box, the amp just plumb struck me with its honesty. Although my source is an old Denon CD player, the the RAM rendered the essence of the music. No veils, no compromises. It is an absolutely stunning upgrade from my Denon receiver. Most importantly, it was exactly what was described, and what I had highly anticipated. The amp allows pinpoint imaging of the musicians and produces plenty of power to drive the Paradigms at guitar-jamming levels (uh..really LOUD). The 3-dimensional depth was impressive, but after fiddling with the speaker placement, it improved noticeably. After a few weeks of burn-in though, the RAM performance has significantly improved, especially in the soundstage and inner detail areas. I find myself closing my eyes and getting lost in the music as it just surrounds me. In conjunction with the break-in that the Paradigms are going through, the system it just gets better. Music is truly personal in every respect, and this amp has captivated my soul. I protested with Zappa, hoped with Bob Marley, partied with Zeppelin, spaced out with the Beatles, had a cigarette with Kings X, loved with Sarah Vaughan and kissed Al Dimeola's freekin' axe! I can't say enough about the RAM501, so it must suffice to say that I have just ordered the new tube-based RAM CD Player from Bill, and I can't wait!

Product Weakness: What? Where?
Product Strengths: Everything about it, including the value.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	RAM501 Signature
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	None
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Denon DCD-620
Speakers:	Paradigm Reference Studion 60 v.2
Cables/Interconnects:	Monster Cables
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Jazz/Blues/Rock/Zappa
Room Size (LxWxH):	18 x 18 x 8
Room Comments/Treatments:	Wall to wall carpet, two brawling dogs.
Time Period/Length of Audition:	2 weeks
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	What? Where?
Product Strengths:	Everything about it, including the value.