Amp/Preamp Asylum: REVIEW: Hafler DH500 Modified by Musical Concepts Amplifier (SS) by dewmonster

Model:	DH500 Modified by Musical Concepts
Category:	Amplifier (SS)
Suggested Retail Price:	$3500.00
Description:	250 Watt/channel Dual mono All Blackgate amplifier
Manufacturer URL:	Hafler
Model Picture:	View

Review by dewmonster ( A ) on February 24, 2003 at 20:13:35
IP Address: 24.29.182.35

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for the DH500 Modified by Musical Concepts

This amp is actually the second mod I had done by Mr. Hillig of musical concepts.
I was so completely impressed with his mid-priced signature upgrade that I purchased a second DH500 in Kit form and had musical concepts build it with all the best circuitry that was available to me.
This included the platinum front end circuit board, The Toroidal transformers (1000 watts) feeding four large can BlackGate caps. In addition I had the power cord replaced with an IEC connection. The RCA's are oxygen free 24kt gold, and the binding posts are cardas copper.
Those of you familiar with the DH500 will notice the relay circuit is missing and also the output fuses are not connected. This was done to preserve the sonic integrity of the amp.
Now for the sound......Let me say that as good as my first upgrade was.....and it was definately in a class with some of the finest power amps on the market.....It doesn't hold a candle to the detail that this amp has.
Not only do I hear things that were literally not on the recording before but the bass slam is incredible, soundstage is awesome and unshakable, and the microdynamics are more complete than I thought existed in the recordings.
In the world of audio usually what happens as you spend more money is you get what is known as diminishing returns.
In the case of the musical concepts Mods. The more you put in to the upgrade, the more you get out. I would have no reservations about doing an a> b comparison with my Hafler against anything available at any price point!!! Yes it is that good!!
If you are on a limited budget and are not into the "name-game" ie. Krell,Levinson etc. This amp is for you.

Product Weakness: When pushed really hard.....the fan turns to high speed and it is a little noisy.....however it cycles down within a minute or two and is then very quiet
Product Strengths: Slam....finesse....power.....looks.....build quality, and anything else that I may have missed

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Hafler (as reviewed)
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	Sony tae-9000es
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	DVD player with signature mod by musical concepts
Speakers:	JSE infinite slope Model 2's (sensitivity 89db)
Cables/Interconnects:	signal cable
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	pop rock
Room Size (LxWxH):	18 x 12 x cathedral
Time Period/Length of Audition:	extended periods
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	When pushed really hard.....the fan turns to high speed and it is a little noisy.....however it cycles down within a minute or two and is then very quiet
Product Strengths:	Slam....finesse....power.....looks.....build quality, and anything else that I may have missed