Amp/Preamp Asylum: REVIEW: Edge Electronics G.5 Amplifier (SS) by tlea

Model:	G.5
Category:	Amplifier (SS)
Suggested Retail Price:	$2485
Description:	100 wpc (8 ohms) switching amp
Manufacturer URL:	Edge Electronics
Model Picture:	View

Review by tlea ( A ) on January 13, 2007 at 06:06:17
IP Address: 74.241.119.228

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for the G.5

Having retired my McCormack DNA 0.5 Deluxe in favor of a bi-amped pair of PS Audio HCA-2s a few years ago, I may have been something of an early adopter in the higher-end Class D amp arena. The technology apparently has improved logarithmically since then, and based on my satisfaction with the HCA-2s I was compelled to investigate the newer generation of switching amps. I auditioned the Channel Island D-200 and D-100 and the Nuforce Ref 9 (and the Sonic Impact T-amp) before settling on the Edge G.5. Full disclosure: For logistical reasons I was not able to listen to any of these amps in my system prior to purchasing the G.5, and neither was I able to do A/B comparative listening them with them in the same room and setup. Therefore, my comparison is based on subjective memory and personal impressions, so add your grains of salt.
The G.5 is Edge's entry level product. They are known for their expensive, distinctive looking solid state equipment. It is a stereo amp, not monoblocks like the CI and Nu, and is about the same size and weight as a stacked pair of the Nuforce. It has an advantage (to me) over the CI in that it offers both balanced and single-ended connctors. Build quality is tight and substantial, and the connectors and binding posts are obviously of high quality. The appearance is clean and straightforward, and although it is lightweight (12 lbs) it is quite stable and can handle thick, heavy, inflexible cables without getting tipped out of level (a problem with the Nuforce amps). The compact shape, weight, and low heat output characteristic of Class D amps make it easy to accommodate, especially compared to the HCA-2s which weighed 40 lbs each. Edge also produces a 250 wpc version in the same size chassis.
My impression of the CI D-200 and the NuForce Ref 9 was that they were not a quantum leap better than the PS Audio HCA-2. The Edge G.5 is another story altogether: the presence and musicality of this amp are a revelation. The overall impression is one of warmth and precision, in contrast to the brighter, more analytical presentation of the HCA-2s. My speakers (Silverline Sonata) are notably polite in the bass region - as I prefer it - but the Edge gives a sense of fullness at the low end that goes beyond what the HCA-2s provided, even though it delivers fewer watts per channel . Midrange presentation, especially vocals - in my mind the most difficult aspect of musical reproduction, is nuanced and clear. On the high end, the sound is clean and crisp; sibilance is negligible. Imaging and soundstage, areas where I feel that switching type amps improve on traditional solid state, are distinct and precise with good separation of instruments in the mix and a deep, centralized presentation.
The bottom line: The Edge G.5 is at the top of the heap among switching amps at this price point and competes with any solid state amp I have heard at the $5000 range. Highest possible recommendation.
Here is a partial listing of musical selections used for analysis:
For midrange response (mostly voice and piano):
David Sylvian - Secrets of the Beehive LP
Cyrus Chestnut - Earth Stories CD
Jennifer Warnes - Famous Blue Raincoat LP
For bass response:
PiL - Metal Box LP
Kodo - Ibuki CD
Rob Wasserman - Duets LP
For overall dynamic range:
Scott Walker - Tilt CD
Cardas Sweep test record - LP
Oregon - Beyond Words CD
Pink Floyd - Wish You Were Here LP
Burmester Sampler CD
Footnote: The Manufacturer URL is misspelled in the header link, and I cannot edit that so I will provide it here: www.edgeamp.com

Product Weakness: Sonically, none at this price. The manufacturer keeps a low profile, so resale value might suffer since it is not well known or widely reviewed.
Product Strengths: Smooth, liquid presentation with wide dynamic range. Good build quality; balanced inputs; compact form factor; high efficiency and low heat output.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Edge G.5
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	PS Audio PCA-2 + Rogue Stealth phono
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Acoustic Signature Samba+Incognito RB300+Scheu-Benz LO / CAL Icon II + Channel Island VDA-1
Speakers:	Silverline Sonata II (93dB)
Cables/Interconnects:	Cardas/PS Audio/XLO
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Eclectic
Room Size (LxWxH):	25 x 15 x 7.5
Time Period/Length of Audition:	1 month
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	BPT BP-2
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	Sonically, none at this price. The manufacturer keeps a low profile, so resale value might suffer since it is not well known or widely reviewed.
Product Strengths:	Smooth, liquid presentation with wide dynamic range. Good build quality; balanced inputs; compact form factor; high efficiency and low heat output.