General Asylum: REVIEW: PS Audio HCA-2 Amplifier (SS) by esb

Model:	HCA-2
Category:	Amplifier (SS)
Suggested Retail Price:	$1695
Description:	Hybrid Class A
Manufacturer URL:	PS Audio
Model Picture:	View

Review by esb ( A ) on April 24, 2002 at 21:48:46
IP Address: 65.32.180.183

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for the HCA-2

I was a Beta tester for this amp(HCA-2). I previously owned the Bel Canto EVO 200.2 and compared the two digital amps. The EVO that I had was not the newer version with the larger power supply. I did not expect to hear anything like what I heard when I placed the HCA-2 amp into my system. Everything was better and not just a little bit better over the EVO. The HCA-2 was more musical in my system. The amp is very transparent. Highs are properly balanced. Not quite as extended as the EVO. Mids are totally tube like with lots of air and dimensionality. They are uncolored and well balanced. The mid bass is exceptional. Strong yet detailed. Depth and width of soundstage were better. I could go on and on about this amp. I can not wait to hear what others opinions are about this amp when they try it. IMO and in my system this amp can not be beat in this price range. Impressions of this amp by other beta testers can be found at their web site.

Product Weakness: None in this price range
Product Strengths: Sound,musicality and detail. Price.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	PS audio HCA-2 and Bel Canto EVO 200.2
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	First Sound Presence Deluxe MKII
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	47 Labs Flatfish with Progression DAC
Speakers:	Genesis APM-1
Cables/Interconnects:	HMS Grand Finale IC ,Omega Mikro Analogue V IC and Planar III speaker cables and HMS II Primo MK II digital RCA
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Jazz,classical and modern.
Time Period/Length of Audition:	2 months
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	Hydra with David Elrods EPS 3 to the Hydra and EPS 2 to the preamp.
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	None in this price range
Product Strengths:	Sound,musicality and detail. Price.