Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

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.

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.

Manufacturer details

  • Outputs: +20dBu
  • Dimensions: H 482.6mm (19") W 88mm (3.5") D 356mm (14")
  • Weight: 12.5kg
  • Frequency response: 7Hz - 30kHz -3dB
  • Input impedance: 20kΩ
  • Sensitivity: 0 dBu to 20dBu
  • THD (Rated output power into 8Ohms): 0.05% at 1kHz, into 4Ω, AES17 filter
  • Damping factor: 800 (20Hz - 20kHz) ref 8ohm
The power750-8 eight-channel amplifier combines exceptionally transparent and neutral sound with a massive power output, DSP control for each channel, Dante or balanced analogue inputs and easy EQ adjustment via System Engineer software.
The power750-8 eight-channel amplifier combines exceptionally transparent and neutral sound with a massive power output, DSP control for each channel, Dante or balanced analogue inputs and easy EQ adjustment via System Engineer software.

From a unit that only occupies 2U of rack space, the power750-8 delivers 8 x 750 watts, or when bridged and configured as a four-channel amplifier, produces 1,500 watts per channel. Designed to power any passive PMC speaker, the PMC power 750-8 is particularly well suited to the slimline Ci monitors widely used for surround and height channels in Dolby Atmos professional and home cinema installations.

It also offers fully featured DSP EQ control for each of the eight channels via System Engineer software that can be installed on any Windows PC. This intuitive software gives a complete toolbox to allow the configuration of each speaker to deliver its optimum performance according to room acoustics and position.

Inputs are selectable/switchable as balanced analogue or Dante, and the mains input features auto-switching for added flexibility.
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:

  • PMC leverages its professional studio monitor expertise to create hifi speakers, resulting in accurate and detailed sound reproduction at home.
  • The brand utilizes Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology in their speaker designs, producing tight, extended, and well-balanced bass.
  • They pay significant attention to minimizing cabinet vibrations through decoupled designs, mass damping, and plinth stands to improve imaging and overall clarity.

Prodigy5

  • Positioning: A compact floor-standing speaker designed for versatility in various room sizes.
  • Description: Offers a dynamic sound experience with its Advanced Transmission Line and twin Laminair vents, making it ideal for small to medium rooms. Compared to the larger models like the twenty5.26i, it provides a more affordable option without compromising on the clarity and depth of sound. Its compact design makes it suitable for those with limited space and a moderate budget, while still delivering a powerful audio performance.

Active twenty5.24i

  • Positioning:The largest two-way speaker in the active twenty5i series, designed for high-resolution audio.
  • Description: This model combines active technology with PMC's ATL to deliver precise and dynamic sound, perfect for larger rooms. Unlike the passive models such as the Prodigy5, the active design allows for optimized internal amplification, providing a more integrated and space-efficient solution.

Prophecy9

  • Positioning: The flagship model of the Prophecy series, offering state-of-the-art performance.
  • Description: Featuring PMC's LaminairX technology, delivers an expansive soundstage and deep bass, ideal for large rooms and high-end audio setups. It surpasses models like the twenty5.26i in terms of technological sophistication and sound dynamics.

Fenestria

  • Positioning: The top-of-the-range model in the Fact series, designed for the ultimate listening experience.
  • Description: With vibration-cancelling design and advanced materials, offers exceptional sound purity. It stands out from other models like the Prophecy9 with its innovative cabinet and driver technologies, providing an immersive audio experience.
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Avg. Product Price
$5,001-$10,000
Used For Sale
65
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
58
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
57
Founding Year
1991

Our take on the brand

PMC is a hifi speaker brand known for its Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology, which enhances bass response and reduces distortion, and its LaminairX technology in the Prophecy series, which reduces turbulence and harmonic distortion by up to 3dB. Their active speakers are preferred by music and audio professionals for their tonal accuracy and dynamic range, with user reviews particularly praising their accurate midrange and detailed sound compared to brands like Dynaudio and B&W.

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Our interview with the brand

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What if you spend more?

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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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Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Product image
Krell
Solo 575 XD
14300
14300
/
2
Reviews
Krell is a hifi brand whose amplifiers use iBias technology to operate in Class A up to full power without excessive heat, while maintaining the ability to double power output as speaker impedance halves. Their amplifiers feature XD technology for better control over speaker drivers, and modern models like the K-300i include Bluetooth, HDMI, and streaming features for contemporary audio setups.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Superior grip on woofers
  • Muscular, well-textured bottom end
  • Unusually powerful for a class-A amp, outputting a claimed 575W RMS into 8 ohms or 900W into 4 ohms, yet weighing only 70 lbs and having no external heatsinks
  • Weight and power were undeniable
  • Transient slam and grip on the Wilson Audio woofers took it to another level of excitement

Product Considerations

  • Aesthetic design uses a thin, U-shaped cover which is more common for home-theater receivers and processors, suggesting it saves on cost compared to milled-aluminum cases
  • LCD screen has a somewhat dated look
  • Initial impressions were negative, sounding 'broken: glazed and spatially flat, with weak bass,'—but this was resolved

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs darTZeel NHB-458 monoblocks, the Solo 575 exerted a superior grip on the woofers of the reviewer's Wilson Audio Specialties Alexandria XLF speakers
  • Vs Bel Canto Design's Black amplification system, the Krells had a bottom-end whomp that reminded the reviewer of the Bel Canto system

Takeaway: The Krell Solo 575 is a powerful amplifier that delivers impressive bass control and a muscular sound. It could be a great choice for audiophiles looking for a class-A amp with high power output without the need for massive heatsinks.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Krell is a hifi brand whose amplifiers use iBias technology to operate in Class A up to full power without excessive heat, while maintaining the ability to double power output as speaker impedance halves. Their amplifiers feature XD technology for better control over speaker drivers, and modern models like the K-300i include Bluetooth, HDMI, and streaming features for contemporary audio setups.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Hegel
H30A
18995
18995
/
1
Reviews

The H30A is The Orchestra. With its immense power, speaker matching is no longer an issue. The Orchestra can play any "venue", be it large stadiums or small cellar clubs, and with its unsurpassed skill and attention to detail, no music is too challenging. It conveys all music like you never thought possible. No matter what or where it plays, The Orchestra will always perform at its best. The H30A is the best orchestra you will ever experience.

The H30A is our reference power amplifier. We have nicknamed it The Orchestra because that is what it is. The H30A's job is to take command of any music on any speakers and make it sound as good as possible without ever breaking a sweat, and we can think of no more challenging music than a large orchestral piece.

The H30A is an absolute powerhouse of an amplifier. In its mono state it delivers a truly astounding 1100 watts in 8 ohms, and it is completely stable even with 1-ohm loads. To achieve this, we have applied all our skills and knowledge in amplifier design and combined that with the best electronics.

The H30A power supply uses 2 separate 1000 VA toroidal transformers for fast response and minimized transformer hum. With a power bank of 270,000 μF capacitors, the H30A can handle even the most challenging piece of music at any volume, it always has enough power in reserve. In the output stage we use 56 pieces 15A 200W high speed, ultra-low distortion bipolar transistors. With so much power ready at any given time, things like speaker sensitivity and variation in loads no longer come into play. With the H30A you can confidently drive any speaker you like.

Power is however nothing without the details to match. In a large power amplifier like this, the input stage is especially vulnerable to electrical interference distorting the music signal. One troublesome type of distortion is higher order harmonic distortion. It is a type of distortion that is far removed from the original music frequencies and can often make the amplifier sound harsh and unmusical. In the H30A input stage we eliminate this by using single pair FET transistors. These are carefully hand matched transistors that have the exact same values, and therefore they have no higher order harmonic distortion.

Other types of distortion we cancel out with our patented SoundEngine technology. This actively monitors the music signal for corruptions and corrects for distortion using a feed forward design. SoundEngine effectively removes distortion in real time as the signal is amplified. These measures make the H30A sound very smooth and natural, without compromising on the details.

The H30A is designed as a mono power amplifier, but it can also be used as a stereo power amplifier. It has both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) inputs and a 12V trigger input. For the best possible connection, the H30A features high quality, gold-plated speaker binding posts.

Usually, when going from one amplifier to a more powerful one, you experience more of everything. More bass, more details, more involvement - everything is just more. With the H30A we have reached a whole new level of differences. Because the H30A is so immensely powerful and detailed, the concept of "more" simply becomes irrelevant. In the H30A the bass is tremendously deep, but never dominating. The high frequencies are exceptionally detailed, but never fatiguing. And the articulation of vocals in the midrange is just sublime.

At this level, what you experience is simply total control. The H30A is an amplifier that can drive virtually all known loudspeakers with authority and ease. It never sounds forced, only relaxed and musical. The H30A is the spearhead of our amplifier technology. It is the large orchestra that brings life to any music in any venue.

Known for producing all-in-one integrated amplifiers, Hegel has become a favorite among hi-fi enthusiasts and dealers worldwide. Their amplifiers are particularly praised for their exceptional bass control, attributed to their high damping factor, which ensures precise management of even difficult-to-drive speakers like planar magnetics and dipoles. With competitive pricing and high performance, Hegel integrateds stand out as some of the best options available for audiophiles seeking simplicity and excellence in a single component.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • A neutral, composed, and powerful amplifier
  • Excels with speed and dynamic snap
  • Produces huge, well-formed images
  • Can drive pretty much anything due to its over-specified design
  • Renders bass frequencies with a crackling sense of power through the upper bass and into the midrange, creating corporeal images of instruments

Product Considerations

  • Very heavy (104.5 pounds) and large, posing a logistical challenge for placement
  • When used in stereo mode, is single-ended, potentially breaking a balanced chain in a fully balanced system
  • High input sensitivity may require a low-gain preamp to experience its full potential
  • Top plate is sheet aluminum of reasonable thickness, and is somewhat underdamped

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Bryston 4B 3, the H30A juices up realism and pulls the listener more deeply into the performance, especially through revealing speakers, the 4B 3 is a stone-cold bargain though
  • Compared to Simaudio Moon 860A v2, the H30A's top end was clear and extended, without the Simaudio's slight softening

Takeaway: The Hegel H30A is a powerful amplifier that delivers a neutral and composed sound. Its ability to create realistic and well-defined images makes it a great choice for those seeking a high-performance listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Known for producing all-in-one integrated amplifiers, Hegel has become a favorite among hi-fi enthusiasts and dealers worldwide. Their amplifiers are particularly praised for their exceptional bass control, attributed to their high damping factor, which ensures precise management of even difficult-to-drive speakers like planar magnetics and dipoles. With competitive pricing and high performance, Hegel integrateds stand out as some of the best options available for audiophiles seeking simplicity and excellence in a single component.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Product image
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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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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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.
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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.
Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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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.
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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.
Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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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.
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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

  • 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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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AGD
Tempo di GaN
5500
/
Released
2021
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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