Dear All,
So I have recently had the wonderful opportunity to listen to both these amps with my monitor audio RX1s, but I'm still in limbo... Well maybe half limbo.
The 5i sounded very lively, engaging and interesting and with some music it really gave you the feeling that you were actually there. On the other side though it was sometimes tiring to listen too for long sessions or when you just want to sit back and enjoy and not be pushed.
The XS was far more laid back. It took me some time to spot the difference between that and playing stereo through my Marantz AV6005 receiver. Slowly (as the amp warmed up) however i did notice the incredible control and detail this amp offers, and especially at slightly higher volumes. The sound was far more comfortable, still detailed and the low end control was simply amazing. You could listen to this for hours...
My question to you guys is what should I do? The XS is almost twice the cost, but I do think I will upgrade my speakers in the future (hopefully back to floorstanders) so the XS mighy be better. However, can i warrant the investment for such small speakers. As you can see my decision is practically made, but I just need that push from fellow enthusiasts!
Thanks!
RS
So I have recently had the wonderful opportunity to listen to both these amps with my monitor audio RX1s, but I'm still in limbo... Well maybe half limbo.
The 5i sounded very lively, engaging and interesting and with some music it really gave you the feeling that you were actually there. On the other side though it was sometimes tiring to listen too for long sessions or when you just want to sit back and enjoy and not be pushed.
The XS was far more laid back. It took me some time to spot the difference between that and playing stereo through my Marantz AV6005 receiver. Slowly (as the amp warmed up) however i did notice the incredible control and detail this amp offers, and especially at slightly higher volumes. The sound was far more comfortable, still detailed and the low end control was simply amazing. You could listen to this for hours...
My question to you guys is what should I do? The XS is almost twice the cost, but I do think I will upgrade my speakers in the future (hopefully back to floorstanders) so the XS mighy be better. However, can i warrant the investment for such small speakers. As you can see my decision is practically made, but I just need that push from fellow enthusiasts!
Thanks!
RS