Amp/Preamp Asylum

Classe CA 2200 vs. Parasound A-21

139.55.251.219

George S. Roland

Would like to hear from anyone familiar with the sound of these two power amps what differences I might expect to hear. Using B&W Matrix 801 Series II speakers.

Looking for rock solid bass and a somewhat forgiving treble since the 801s can be a little bit much at times.

Thanks,

George

Follow Ups:

RE: Classe CA 2200 vs. Parasound A-21 - fantja 08:51:52 05/16/15 (0)
George-

Classe' is a sonic match for B&W loudspeakers.
RE: Classe CA 2200 vs. Parasound A-21 - A.Wayne 18:21:29 05/15/15 (3)
801's , easily recommend Krell or CJ SS Amps, Classe I have heard before and too bright and forward , similar sound to Bryston 4B . The A21 is also good but never heard it on an 801, I can safely say Krell ...
- Krell KSA 250? - George S. Roland 19:02:53 05/15/15 (2)
  I pretty much have to stick to used equipment because of costs, but I have considered a Krell KSA 250. If you are familiar with that amp, I wonder what your thoughts on it would be for my speakers and listening druthers?
  
  Thanks,
  
  George
  - RE: Krell KSA 250? - A.Wayne 13:35:13 05/16/15 (0)
    Use an FPB 200 , they are about the same price , less low-Z drive , but better mids/top end...
  - Or a Pass Labs X-250??? - Opus 33 1/3 03:51:12 05/16/15 (0)
    Opus 33 1/3
RE: Classe CA 2200 vs. Parasound A-21 - Dave_K 03:53:13 05/15/15 (1)
I have only heard Classe with B&W, with 801s in a hotel room at a show and 802s in a showroom, and didn't think it's the best pairing. The sound I heard was very dynamic but too forward and I didn't want to listen for very long. From what I've read, Classe used to have a warmer sound but Delta series Classe is very clean and clear and not warm at all.

I have a Parasound A23 and have heard the A21 as well. I think these amps are fabulous bargains and have all around good sound with no obvious faults but won't knock your socks off in any particular area. They are a bit on the warm side of neutral and won't have the precision and detail of the Classe but should help to take the edge off of speakers that have an aggressive treble.

Between the two choices you proposed, I would take the A21.

But have you considered McIntosh? The big solid state McIntosh amps are a popular pairing with B&W 801 and 802 and have the characteristics you are looking for. MC302 used will be a bit more expensive than Classe CA 2200 used.
- RE: Classe CA 2200 vs. Parasound A-21 - George S. Roland 08:30:30 05/15/15 (0)
  Thanks, Dave K. Helpful comments

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