Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Solid build quality, described as a 'solid brick' feel, with a restrained and elegant design
- Neutral, accurate, and clear sound reproduction
- Extremely quiet operation with virtually zero noise floor
- Drives speakers with ease
- Reveals the details and differences of upstream components
Product Considerations
- Expensive
- Speaker cable terminals are close together, making banana plugs preferable to spade lugs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Perca takes Class D at its best to the next level, compared to NAD M23
- The Perca was better in terms of transparency, live sound, and dynamics, while the Pass Labs XA25 was more reserved—with more substance and body to the sound
- The Gato PWR222 was closer to the sound of the Perca, sitting in the middle ground between the Perca and the Pass Labs XA25
Takeaway: The Mola Mola Perca is a high-performing amplifier with a neutral sound that allows the listener to hear the music as purely as possible. Its low noise floor and revealing nature make it a great choice for those seeking a top-tier listening experience.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
Perca
reviews
[{"title":"Waters on the Hardware: Mola Mola's Perca Stereo Amplifier, with the Tambaqui DAC to come","link":"https://positive-feedback.com/reviews/hardware-reviews/mola-mola-perca-amplifier","source":"Positive Feedback","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"The BEST CLASS D Amplifier I've Heard!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6b1wfthmAXM","source":"Steve Guttenberg Audiophiliac","datePublished":"2024"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Power: 2x 150W 8Ohm, 2x 300W 4Ohm
- Gain: 22dB or 28dB
- Signal/noise ratio: 128dB
- Distortion (THD and IMD): <0,0003%
- Input impedance: 100kOhm
- Output impedance: 2mOhm (Or Damping factor >4000)
- Bandwidth: 100kHz
Description
The Mola Mola Perca is a stereo power amplifier in our well-known half size chassis. Capable of delivering 150 Watts into an 8 Ohm load and doubling down to 300 Watts into 4 Ohm, it will drive any loudspeaker with ease, refinement, and clarity.
The Mola Mola Perca is a stereo power amplifier in our well-known half size chassis. Capable of delivering 150 Watts into an 8 Ohm load and doubling down to 300 Watts into 4 Ohm, it will drive any loudspeaker with ease, refinement, and clarity. The ultra-low distortion class A input stages are implemented on a separate board, together with their own high performance voltage regulation. Taking the NCORE® technology from our mother company Hypex Electronics as a reference point we set out to refine our Class D, self-oscillating principle and feedback concept, resulting in our proprietary Mola Mola Trajectum platform which is also applied in the Mola Mola Kula integrated amplifier. To cater to a wider range of applications a new gain selection feature is added which enables switching between 22dB and 28dB. The Mola Mola Perca features selectable balanced and single ended inputs, Furutech binding posts, and an on/off trigger connector.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Mola Mola eschews off-the-shelf DAC chips, opting for a proprietary design featuring upsampling to 3.125MHz/32-bit and conversion to noise-shaped PWM using discrete components and custom algorithms.
- The brand's products share a unique design aesthetic characterized by a wave-like aluminum chassis, designed to minimize vibration and resonance, setting them apart from more conventional designs.
- Mola Mola offers an unusually high degree of user control via a Bluetooth-connected app, enabling detailed customization of settings and features for each input.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Kula
- Positioning: An integrated amplifier in the Mola Mola lineup.
- Description: Combines a sleek design with powerful performance, offering 150 Watts into 8 Ohms and 300 Watts into 4 Ohms, similar to the Perca but with integrated preamp and DAC features. Borrows the chassis and line stage from the Makua and includes the Tambaqui DAC, making it a versatile all-in-one solution.
Perca
- Positioning: A compact stereo power amplifier in Mola Mola's lineup.
- Description: Delivers 150 Watts into 8 Ohms and 300 Watts into 4 Ohms, making it suitable for various speaker setups. Features ultra-low distortion class A input stages and the Mola Mola Trajectum platform, similar to the Kula integrated amplifier, offering refined Class D performance.
Kaluga
- Positioning: A power amplifier in the Mola Mola lineup.
- Description: Uses class-D technology, delivering 400W into 8 Ohms and 700W into 4 Ohms, offering exceptional power and efficiency. Features a unique design with low distortion and noise, outperforming traditional class-A amplifiers, unlike the Perca, which offers a more compact solution.
Lupe
- Positioning: A standalone phono stage in the Mola Mola lineup.
- Description: Features an archival-grade phono stage, offering three single-ended inputs and one balanced input, providing flexibility for vinyl enthusiasts. Has independent MC/MM input stages, unlike the Makua and Kula, which integrate phono stages as optional add-ons, making it the quietest and most versatile phono stage available.
Makua
- Positioning: A preamplifier in the Mola Mola lineup.
- Description: Features a transparent gain stage and programmable routing matrix, offering flexibility with optional DAC and phono stage add-ons. Its unique single-ended driven differential topology reduces noise, unlike the Kula, which integrates these features into an all-in-one design.
Tambaqui
- Positioning: A standalone DAC in the Mola Mola lineup.
- Description: Features a discrete DAC design, offering a 130dB SNR and advanced digital processing, making it a top choice for digital audio enthusiasts. Unlike the Makua, which integrates the DAC as an optional module, the Tambaqui provides a dedicated solution for those seeking the highest digital audio quality.
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Avg. Product Price
$5,001-$10,000
Used For Sale
7
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
143
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
7
Founding Year
2012
Our take on the brand
Mola Mola is recognized for bringing innovative Class D amplification to hifi through the work of renowned engineer Bruno Putzeys. Their products deliver clean and efficient performance with extremely low distortion, and their DAC is considered among the best.
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Our interview with the brand
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What if you spend more?
Chord Electronics
Ultima
15375
15375
/
8
Reviews
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
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Product Strengths
- Offers a remarkably smooth, unforced, and natural presentation with a touch of warmth
- Excels in detail retrieval and textured presentation of instruments and vocals, making the music feel alive
- Presents a wide and holographic soundstage, especially when paired with speakers that are already strong in this area
- Demonstrates agility, precision, and clarity, combined with a naturalness that eluded earlier generations of Chord amplifiers
- Scales dynamically and has the ability to punch hard when required
Product Considerations
- Has a minimalist design with just four line-level inputs, lacking features like phono stages, tone controls, headphone outputs, or DAC modules
- Some may find its sonic signature prioritizes articulation over qualities such as richness and authority, potentially sounding thin if partnered poorly
- Balance control has no center indent or marked position
- The polychromatic lighting may be an issue for the color-blind
- Remote operation can be affected by direct sunlight
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rega Elex-R Mk3, the Chord Ultima Integrated delivers undeniably elevated sound in all respects, with greater dimensionality and smoother vocals
- Vs Bryston 7B 3 monoblocks, the Chord Ultima Integrated offers a weightier and more thunderous delivery, especially in the midrange and vocals, with more inner warmth in tone
- Vs Benchmark AHB2, the Chord Ultima Integrated provides a more energetic and fun listening experience, with Thor-like bass impact and overall superior dynamics
- Vs Accuphase E-270, the Chord Ultima Integrated is warmer, rounder, more powerful, and refined, with a more fluid and emotionally engaging performance
Takeaway: The Chord Ultima Integrated is a unique and well-built amplifier that combines a visually pleasing design with a captivating sound, full of detail and dynamic precision. It brings music to life with an engaging and immersive experience, making it a worthy addition to any audiophile's setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Product Page
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AGD
Duet
11500
11500
/
7
Reviews
The AGD DUET Monoblock Amplifier, is the newest addition to our state of the art Hi-End Power Amplifiers family. The AGD DUET is our first compact Monoblock Amplifier utilizing 100% Gallium Nitride Power MOSFET design for both the output power stage and the power supply.
AGD Productions uses GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology in their amplifiers, which are housed in glass tubes reminiscent of classic vacuum tubes, delivering high power from a compact size with near-perfect square waves. The amplifiers are designed to be upgradeable as technology advances, with GaN modules that can be replaced, while handling complex impedance loads similar to high-end Class-A or SET tube amps.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Compact size, lightweight, and runs cool compared to traditional high-end amplifiers
- Exceptionally quiet operation, with reviewers noting a complete absence of hum or buzz
- Delivers a clean, crisp, and neutral sound signature without added coloration
- Upgradeable design, allowing users to update the amplifier with new GaN modules as technology evolves
- Produces a Single Ended Triode-like midrange and top end
Product Considerations
- The polished finish is a fingerprint magnet, requiring the use of gloves for handling
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs AGD Audion MKIII: The Duets offer a cleaner and more refined sound with improved bass and greater immediacy and snap compared to the Audion MKIII
- Vs Daniel Hertz Maria: The AGD Duets seem to have a little more inner resolution
- Vs Pass Labs X250.8: The AGD Duets performed to a higher level
- Vs Peachtree GaN 1/VTV GaN amps: AGD amps seem to be on another level in regards to design, and the sound is more refined and beautiful
- Vs Aavik U-150, Luxman 595, Yamaha A-S 3200, Axxess Forte 1, Line Magnetic 219ia: The AGD Duets performed to a higher level
Takeaway: The AGD Duet amplifiers offer a blend of cutting-edge technology, exceptional sound quality, and user-friendly design. They are a great option for those seeking a high-end audio experience in a compact and energy-efficient package.
Video review
Our take on the brand
AGD Productions uses GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology in their amplifiers, which are housed in glass tubes reminiscent of classic vacuum tubes, delivering high power from a compact size with near-perfect square waves. The amplifiers are designed to be upgradeable as technology advances, with GaN modules that can be replaced, while handling complex impedance loads similar to high-end Class-A or SET tube amps.
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ASR
Emitter II
18750
18750
/
6
Reviews
The Emitter II models are considered by real music connoisseurs and uncompromising audiophiles to be the ultimate in amplifier construction. Almost purely by hearsay, a music-addicted and ever-growing fan base has developed worldwide, which has realized its dream of a concert hall in its own home.
Powered by two separate power supplies, the most sophisticated loudspeakers and elaborately constructed dynamic converters are driven to peak sound performance. With an Emitter II Basic, music unfolds in the full dynamic range. From the breath to the slightest rustle on the stage to the power of the full orchestra, the Emitter II Basic reproduces all tones neutrally, powerfully, energetically, with high resolution and unadulterated in the listening room.
Especially at peak levels at concert volume, the playback and spatial imaging remain absolutely stable. Quiet listeners also rave about the noticeable and very pleasant energy in the sound, which makes the music a relaxing and pleasant experience even at low levels.
ASR Audio's Emitter II Exclusive amplifier creates a vast, tube-like soundstage and three-dimensional presentation without tube colorations, while maintaining exceptional transparency and a low noise floor. The brand stands out for its emphasis on measurements and scientific analysis in audio equipment evaluation, often sparking debates between measurement-focused and subjective listening-focused audiophiles.
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Product Strengths
- Known for combining the musicality of tube amplifiers with the precision and power of solid-state amplifiers.
- It provides a transparent sound with steel control, without the electronic 'shine' associated with transistor amplifiers.
- Exceptional bass performance, described as deep, explosive, and completely controlled.
- Homogeneous frequency range, offering a very high degree of transparency and control.
- Offers an ability to resolve even the finest musically significant details.
Product Considerations
- Requires a substantial amount of space due to its multi-component design.
- The sound offered might be 'too beautiful' for some listeners, as it is not 'brutal' or 'terse' enough.
- Requires care in using its switches to avoid shutdowns.
- Some reviewers note it was 'dark sounding' on the highs, though it did not lack information.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Quad ESL loudspeakers, it surpasses the musicality and clarity achieved with many tube amps, rivaling even high-end options like Lamm Industries ML2.2 and Miyajima Laboratory 2010.
- The ASR has better bass and is more transparent than MBL, however, it lacks the grace that MBL offers.
- Compared to Rogue 180W monoblocks, the ASR Emitter II delivers better bass.
- The ASR Emitter II has slightly better bass control than Manley Neoclassic 500, but the Neoclassic 500 has a more marvelous style of fiddling.
- Compared to Edge and Audio Research, the ASR is darker sounding.
Takeaway: The ASR Emitter II Exclusive offers a combination of tube-like warmth and solid-state precision, making the listening experience a very involving one. It provides exceptional control and detail across the entire frequency range, making it a great choice for audiophiles.
Video review
Our take on the brand
ASR Audio's Emitter II Exclusive amplifier creates a vast, tube-like soundstage and three-dimensional presentation without tube colorations, while maintaining exceptional transparency and a low noise floor. The brand stands out for its emphasis on measurements and scientific analysis in audio equipment evaluation, often sparking debates between measurement-focused and subjective listening-focused audiophiles.
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Audio Research
Reference 80S
18500
18500
/
6
Reviews
Audio Research is a hifi brand that has stayed committed to tube technology while many competitors moved to solid-state designs. The brand is known for its use of KT150 power beam tetrodes and hybrid power supply designs that blend tube amplification with solid-state regulation.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Delivers power while handling subtlety and fine detail with aplomb
- Presents an engaging and naturally organic soundstage
- Offers switchable Ultralinear and Triode tube configurations
- Hand-wired, hand-soldered, and hand-assembled
- The top end is silky, resolved, and decent, resulting in no listening fatigue
Product Considerations
- The bass is not that punchy as with the best high-end amplifiers
- The amplifier can be demanding towards the acoustics of the room due to its heavy-on-bottom balance
- Limited power handling that does not allow for playing too loud
- The 80S sounds more homogenous, although the listening is rewarding and entertaining
- Ensure existing speakers will work with the Reference 80S to satisfaction before purchase
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Simaudio Moon 860A v2 power amplifier, the voice of Hana was warmer and velvetier through the Audio Research—a bit more human for my ears—although the sound was slightly less transparent and less controlled
Takeaway: The Audio Research Reference 80S is a tube power amplifier that delivers precision and subtlety. If high-end audio is desired and a lot of power is not necessary, the Reference 80S could be a good fit for a listening space.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Audio Research is a hifi brand that has stayed committed to tube technology while many competitors moved to solid-state designs. The brand is known for its use of KT150 power beam tetrodes and hybrid power supply designs that blend tube amplification with solid-state regulation.
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What competes at this price?
Primare
A35.8
5247
/
Released
2022
The A35.8 is Primare's most powerful and flexible multi-channel amplifier, designed to serve the needs of virtually any high-performance multi-channel system through its ability for each pair of channels to be bridged to mono for an incredible level of power delivery and system building options, including 1500 watts of total output in a fully bridged bi-amped stereo configuration.
Primare is a Scandinavian hifi brand whose UFPD 2 Amplification technology provides a consistent 26dB feedback loop gain across the entire audio range, making their amplifiers exceptionally stable and accurate. Their modular design approach lets users customize their systems by adding or upgrading components like DACs and network modules.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The A35.8 provides eight channels of 'unimpeachable Class D power in a fairly compact and very flexible package'
- Flexible configuration options for power output to speakers are available, such as bi-amping and bridging
- Each stereo pair can be bridged separately to make four times 375 watts (8 Ohms) from the eight times 150 watts
- Fault-free sound quality
- High quality fit and finish
- The A35.8 offers flexible connectivity options
Product Considerations
- The 20-amp power inlet is the seldom-seen variety with three horizontal blades
- The speaker output posts are spaced too widely for dual-banana plugs
- Cabling can be tricky
- A high current power cord is needed
- Lower gain is present, though this doesn't necessarily need to be an issue
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs NAD M28, the A35.8 gets you one more channel and more versatility for a 10% price increase
- Vs Benchmark AHB2, the Benchmark presented a more neutral tonal balance and undistorted soundstage
- Vs NAD C 298 stereo amplifiers, the Primare seemed slightly more forward, often conveying an appealing liveliness
Takeaway: The A35.8 power amplifier is a flexible and versatile product worth considering for anyone seeking a high-quality multi-channel setup. Its ability to bridge channels offers many ways to configure your speaker system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Primare is a Scandinavian hifi brand whose UFPD 2 Amplification technology provides a consistent 26dB feedback loop gain across the entire audio range, making their amplifiers exceptionally stable and accurate. Their modular design approach lets users customize their systems by adding or upgrading components like DACs and network modules.
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EAR Yoshino
EAR 890
6351
/
Released
Push-pull power amplifier using eight KT90 output valves (four per channel). 70 Watts per channel stereo (bridgeable to 140 watts mono) into 4, 8, or 16 ohms. Self-biasing design with Balanced or unbalanced input.
EAR Yoshino is a British hifi brand where each product is handmade from start to finish by a single engineer, with their amplifiers featuring a unique balanced bridge mode output stage design that assigns separate windings to each electrode on the output transformer. Their tube-based equipment, inspired by founder Tim de Paravicini's professional recording studio experience, is used by renowned artists like Pink Floyd and Mobile Fidelity Sound Labs.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The EAR 890 produces 70Wpc in stereo, and can be bridged to 140W in monoblock
- Neutral sound that gets out of the way and lets the user enjoy the music
- Complex and dense music textures are handled with ease, and dynamically demanding passages are sailed through
- Articulate midrange
- Detailed and realistic bass
Product Considerations
- Removing/installing tube cages is difficult and time-consuming
- The loudspeaker binding posts are positioned too close to the output transformers, making it hard to tighten them properly
- Some assembly work appeared amateurish, specifically the use of silicone in various locations, such as fastening chassis wires
- The amplifier can operate quite hot
- May not have as much bass impact compared to solid state amps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The EAR 890 monoblocks achieve SET-like definition along with the authority and swagger necessary for most full-size speaker systems, when compared to Cary Audio 300B SET amps
- The EAR 890 is as textured as the top LAMM designs, but with noticeably better neutrality and more power
- The EAR 890 surpassed the deHavilland KE50As with a more articulate midrange, producing more color and separation in the microtones of instruments
Takeaway: The EAR 890 is easy to set up and sounds good with very little tweaking, making it easy to just sit back, relax, and enjoy the music. It's a good choice for people who want a tube amp that is both musical and powerful for their home listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
EAR Yoshino is a British hifi brand where each product is handmade from start to finish by a single engineer, with their amplifiers featuring a unique balanced bridge mode output stage design that assigns separate windings to each electrode on the output transformer. Their tube-based equipment, inspired by founder Tim de Paravicini's professional recording studio experience, is used by renowned artists like Pink Floyd and Mobile Fidelity Sound Labs.
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Parasound
Halo A51
5749
/
Released
The Parasound A51 is a high-powered five-channel amplifier designed to bring your home theater system to life. Delivering 250 watts per channel at 8 ohms, the A51 ensures powerful, clean, and dynamic sound across all five channels. This amplifier is THX Ultra2 certified, providing exceptional performance for even the most demanding speaker systems.
Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers amazing quality of sound and detail
- Bulletproof amplification
- Has a rhythmically soulful sound with a tremendously rich and natural midrange
- The A51's bass is well-defined, extremely textured, and robust
- With 250 watts on tap, the Parasound A51 will power virtually anything
Product Considerations
- Due to its class A/AB design, the A51 does get a bit warm and should be installed in a properly ventilated space and/or rack
- The A51 is large and heavy, and is best moved and/or positioned by two people
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Rotel, the Rotel makes the M&K Sound system slightly bright with a bit of sibilance, while the Parasound is more neutral
- Compared to Acurus A250, the Parasound had tighter bass, which is probably attributed to a better damping factor
Takeaway: The Parasound Halo A51 is a high-performance amplifier with great sound quality, detail, and build quality, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts. Its ability to deliver power and control to speakers makes it a valuable addition to any high-end audio system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
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AGD
Tempo di GaN
5500
/
Released
2021
AGD Productions uses GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology in their amplifiers, which are housed in glass tubes reminiscent of classic vacuum tubes, delivering high power from a compact size with near-perfect square waves. The amplifiers are designed to be upgradeable as technology advances, with GaN modules that can be replaced, while handling complex impedance loads similar to high-end Class-A or SET tube amps.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- GaN technology allows for efficient power usage, with 94% of energy being turned into sound
- Compact size challenges the notion that high-quality amps need to be large
- Design and packaging create pride of ownership
- It can be run in bridged mode to deliver 400 watts into one channel
- Stability and ability to handle complex impedance loads
Product Considerations
- The slight sonic signature may not be for everyone
- If truly outrageous amounts of power are needed to drive speakers, a second AGD Tempo amp might be needed to run in a bridged configuration
- High-frequency noise was discovered when XLR cables were not connected between them
- Power cords can make a large difference, the included power cord doesn't flatter the amp
- Some traditionalists may find it hard to accept that it's a Class-D amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Peachtree Audio GaN400, the AGD Tempo reports to have better overall specifications
- Compared to Parasound Halo A21+, the AGD Tempo is simply superior
- Compared to Bricasti M30 monoblock amplifiers, the level of which the most subtle detail exists approaches reference Bricasti M30 monoblock amplifiers
Takeaway: The AGD Productions Tempo is a cutting-edge amplifier that offers a new take on audiophile amplification and rivals more expensive amplifiers. It can drive speakers easily while being energy efficient.
Video review
Our take on the brand
AGD Productions uses GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology in their amplifiers, which are housed in glass tubes reminiscent of classic vacuum tubes, delivering high power from a compact size with near-perfect square waves. The amplifiers are designed to be upgradeable as technology advances, with GaN modules that can be replaced, while handling complex impedance loads similar to high-end Class-A or SET tube amps.
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Parasound
JCM250
6000
/
Released
2024
The Halo JCM250 is an uncompromising mono power amplifier that sets new standards in power and fidelity. With 250 watts at 8 Ω up to 800 watts at 2 Ω, it delivers exceptional audio performance. The balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs ensure compatibility with various audio sources. Its dual-mono design with two transformers provides exceptional channel separation and sonic accuracy. The direct-coupled design, without capacitors in the signal path, preserves signal integrity and enhances transparency.
Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Impressive parts quality uses FR408 circuit boards and an R-Core transformer to suppress power line noise
- The amplifier has a harmonic richness and bloom to the sound that's seductive
- Bass was tight, controlled, very extended with pitch definition and detailed
- The amplifier's ability to resolve low level spatial cues is amazing—sound stage layering, image specificity, size and shape are outstanding
- Excellent build quality includes a heavy duty chassis and heat sinks
Product Considerations
- It is only available in black
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The JCM250s give a performance very similar to Cambridge Audio JC1 Plus
- The JCM250 is a bit warmer than the Cambridge Audio Edge M, and includes controls to set bias and gain
- With the JCM250 monoblocks having a separate power supply for each channel, it has lower noise compared to the Cambridge Audio JC5
Takeaway: The JCM250 is a high-quality amplifier that uses the best components. It offers great versatility, fitting well with any preamp and speakers.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
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