Perreaux amps

[Macspur]

Hi,

Well, the Electrocompaniet amp and CDP turned up yesterday, along with the Perreaux, so thought I'd report my thoughts so far.

Firstly, the Perreaux Eloquence 150I is definitely not for me. Compared to the IA-4 it's sounds thin and digital... can't fault it for build quality, detail and resolution, but no soul. In terms of user interfase and functionality, it's second to none, but as far as I'm concerned, that's not what I buy an amp for.

The Electrocompaniet EC1-5 MKii

was much more like it... the closest sounding solid state to class A I've heard so far. However, the Sugden beats it on detail and resolution.

Finally, the Electrocompaniet EMC1UP... I think I've found my replacement CDP for the CDX2. This machine has a much bigger beefier SQ and opens up the midrange giving a much more spacious feeling, with clear crisp treble, without ever sounding harsh.

I would still like to hear the new Sugden CDP before making any final decision on the EMC1UP.

As for the amps, I'll play around with them for a few more days,but

it's like Cno said before, it's very hard to change from Class A once you've tried it.

Cheers

Mac

I thought you would like the EMC1up it's quite special isn't it 🙂

The ECI5 mk2 takes quite a while to fully warm up and sound it's best from stone cold and the last thing to appear is that effortless sense of space and inner detail so it may improve with more time over the weekend .

If you remember I said that some Electrocompaniet fans prefer the original ECI5 well to be honest that includes me but I did not want to put you off the MK2 before you had a chance to hear it for yourself especially as it was available at such a good price. The ECI5 mk2 has lost a little of the magic that it's predecessors had but it is still a very good amp !

If the MK2 does not suit your taste then it may be worth trying the Original ECI5 (second hand ) or even the amazing little ECI3 that has remained in it's original form and is still available new . Both of these are are closer to the Sugden sound but with more drive and dynamic headroom .

It is a little puzzling that Electrocompaniet still list the original ECI5 as available alongside the mk2 version on their website so it might be available .

http://www.electrocompaniet.no/products/classic/integrated/

Just looking at the specs of the Original and the MK2 I have noticed what I think may be the main difference , the power consumption with no load or signal on the original ECI5 spec is 160w but on the MK2 it is only 100w , this suggests to me that the original ECI5 is more biased into class A hence the difference in sound quality 🙂

Good listening , Electro.

Hi Electro,

I've struck a provisional deal with the dealer, just want to check the Sugden player out first, but I will be shocked if it betters the EMC1UP.

I've been using the amp quite a bit over the weekend and it really is a close run thing... the Sugden just has that bit more definition, but I could live with the MKii... I think Cno may have sent me a link for a Company selling an ex demo ECI-5, will double check.

However, for now I'm happy to have probably found the CDP to live with for a good few years, and may well even leave the amp for a while and in time might even try the pre/power combo.

Thanks to Cno for suggesting and to you for encouraging me to try Electrocompaniet.

Cheers

Mac

 

[CnoEvil]

Hi Electro,

I've struck a provisional deal with the dealer, just want to check the Sugden player out first, but I will be shocked if it betters the EMC1UP.

I've been using the amp quite a bit over the weekend and it really is a close run thing... the Sugden just has that bit more definition, but I could live with the MKii... I think Cno may have sent me a link for a Company selling an ex demo ECI-5, will double check.

Thanks to Cno for suggesting and to you for encouraging me to try Electrocompaniet.

Cheers

Mac

Here is the link again: http://www.kronosav.com/products#ecwid:mode=product&product=10684128
This is a very tempting offer - and if you had to shift it on, would cost very little.

I would also echo Electro's comment about the components taking a good while to properly warm up and sound right.

If there is anything I can help with, just ask.

Cno

 

[gregvet]

Here is the link again: http://www.kronosav.com/products#ecwid:mode=product&product=10684128 This is a very tempting offer - and if you had to shift it on, would cost very little. I would also echo Electro's comment about the components taking a good while to properly warm up and sound right. If there is anything I can help with, just ask. Cno

Must admit, I have been looking at that one. I have fancied demoing electrocompaniet for some time, and there is no where near me that stocks it. I keep nearly buying this amp to allow an extended home demo, with a view to selling on if I don't fall in love!

 

[acalex]

Hi Electro,

I've struck a provisional deal with the dealer, just want to check the Sugden player out first, but I will be shocked if it betters the EMC1UP.

I've been using the amp quite a bit over the weekend and it really is a close run thing... the Sugden just has that bit more definition, but I could live with the MKii... I think Cno may have sent me a link for a Company selling an ex demo ECI-5, will double check.

Thanks to Cno for suggesting and to you for encouraging me to try Electrocompaniet.

Cheers

Mac

Here is the link again: http://www.kronosav.com/products#ecwid:mode=product&product=10684128 This is a very tempting offer - and if you had to shift it on, would cost very little. I would also echo Electro's comment about the components taking a good while to properly warm up and sound right. If there is anything I can help with, just ask. Cno

Must admit never heard any EC product...maybe it's time to catch up! 🙂

 

[gregvet]

Must admit never heard any EC product...maybe it's time to catch up! 🙂

Youve just bought an amazing amp, don't go buying my extended demo lol

The EMC1UP would be an obvious choice for you to look at tho if you are demoing cd players tho. Shame it doesn't have digital inputs (as far as I can see anywhere) so you would need a separate dac for streaming duties.

 

[acalex]

Must admit never heard any EC product...maybe it's time to catch up! 🙂

Youve just bought an amazing amp, don't go buying my extended demo lol

The EMC1UP would be an obvious choice for you to look at tho if you are demoing cd players tho. Shame it doesn't have digital inputs (as far as I can see anywhere) so you would need a separate dac for streaming duties.

Ahaha, do not worry now is just for the pleasure. Amp chapter is closed at least for next 4/5 years :rofl:

 

[gregvet]

Ahaha, do not worry now is just for the pleasure. Amp chapter is closed at least for next 4/5 years :rofl:

Thats ok then, the rest of us amp buying mortals are safe for a little while 😉

 

[Macspur]

Hi Electro,

I've struck a provisional deal with the dealer, just want to check the Sugden player out first, but I will be shocked if it betters the EMC1UP.

I've been using the amp quite a bit over the weekend and it really is a close run thing... the Sugden just has that bit more definition, but I could live with the MKii... I think Cno may have sent me a link for a Company selling an ex demo ECI-5, will double check.

Thanks to Cno for suggesting and to you for encouraging me to try Electrocompaniet.

Cheers

Mac

Here is the link again: http://www.kronosav.com/products#ecwid:mode=product&product=10684128 This is a very tempting offer - and if you had to shift it on, would cost very little. I would also echo Electro's comment about the components taking a good while to properly warm up and sound right. If there is anything I can help with, just ask. Cno

Thanks for that Cno.

Have been listening via the ECI-5 MKii most of last night and for a couple of hours this morning. Now just changed back to the Sugden and it, in my set up, definitely beats the Electrocompaniet... just got that bit more of everything.

For anyone who's looking for a Class A sound in a solid state box at an affordable price, Electrocompaniet would be the one to choose. Of course all other components have to be taken into consideration.

Cheers

Mac

 

[Macspur]

Hi,

Just a little update on the amp side of things.

The dealer has asked me to give the Perreaux more burn in time, so I've been leaving A CD on continuous play for the last couple of days.

However, this morning, I've noticed a rather distinctive hum coming from the unit, so immediately turned it off.

The perreaux is a highly detailed crisp sounding amp with a nice tight base and if I had never heard the Sugden, would probably be very content with it, but it just lacks that extra air, space and yes, emotion that you get with Class A.

Possibly if I'd been able to leave it on for another few days it may have opened out, but I'm not taking any risks.

Cheers

Mac

 

[CnoEvil]

When are you getting the Sugden CDP....will be interesting to see if the synergy thing wins out. The Electro CDP is very very good!

 

[Macspur]

When are you getting the Sugden CDP....will be interesting to see if the synergy thing wins out. The Electro CDP is very very good!

Looking like next week now.

Only thing is, I doubt I'll be able to keep the EMC1UP till then, so won't be able to do side by side comparison, the more I listen to it the better it sounds... really wanted to get this component sorted this week.

I enquired with Kronos about a home dem of their ECI-5 ex dem, but they weren't willing.

Cheers

Mac

 

[CnoEvil]

I enquired with Kronos about a home dem of their ECI-5 ex dem, but they weren't willing.

Cheers

Mac

Sorry to here that. Was this a location problem, as they are usually very accommodating?

I know they have been stung a few times when dealing through the post, which has made them cautious.

 

[Macspur]

I enquired with Kronos about a home dem of their ECI-5 ex dem, but they weren't willing.

Cheers

Mac

Sorry to here that. Was this a location problem, as they are usually very accommodating?

I know they have been stung a few times when dealing through the post, which has made them cautious.

No, I don't believe so. The reason they gave is that it's an ex demo at a great price.

Cheers

Mac

 

[acalex]

Hi,

Just a little update on the amp side of things.

The dealer has asked me to give the Perreaux more burn in time, so I've been leaving A CD on continuous play for the last couple of days.

However, this morning, I've noticed a rather distinctive hum coming from the unit, so immediately turned it off.

The perreaux is a highly detailed crisp sounding amp with a nice tight base and if I had never heard the Sugden, would probably be very content with it, but it just lacks that extra air, space and yes, emotion that you get with Class A.

Possibly if I'd been able to leave it on for another few days it may have opened out, but I'm not taking any risks.

Cheers

Mac

Weird because the Perreaux 250 we tried with Roby had plenty of details but was also very airy and was able to develop, matched with proper speakers, an huge and impressive soundstage.

 

[Macspur]

Hi,

Just a little update on the amp side of things.

The dealer has asked me to give the Perreaux more burn in time, so I've been leaving A CD on continuous play for the last couple of days.

However, this morning, I've noticed a rather distinctive hum coming from the unit, so immediately turned it off.

The perreaux is a highly detailed crisp sounding amp with a nice tight base and if I had never heard the Sugden, would probably be very content with it, but it just lacks that extra air, space and yes, emotion that you get with Class A.

Possibly if I'd been able to leave it on for another few days it may have opened out, but I'm not taking any risks.

Cheers

Mac

Weird because the Perreaux 250 we tried with Roby had plenty of details but was also very airy and was able to develop, matched with proper speakers, an huge and impressive soundstage.

Not weird... I take it the unit you heard was a demo model, so well run in. The one I've got is new out of the box.

Cheers

Mac

 

[Roby]

Hi,

Just a little update on the amp side of things.

The dealer has asked me to give the Perreaux more burn in time, so I've been leaving A CD on continuous play for the last couple of days.

However, this morning, I've noticed a rather distinctive hum coming from the unit, so immediately turned it off.

The perreaux is a highly detailed crisp sounding amp with a nice tight base and if I had never heard the Sugden, would probably be very content with it, but it just lacks that extra air, space and yes, emotion that you get with Class A.

Possibly if I'd been able to leave it on for another few days it may have opened out, but I'm not taking any risks.

Cheers

Mac

Weird because the Perreaux 250 we tried with Roby had plenty of details but was also very airy and was able to develop, matched with proper speakers, an huge and impressive soundstage.

Not weird... I take it the unit you heard was a demo model, so well run in. The one I've got is new out of the box.

Cheers

Mac

Exactly because the dealer ask me to give hi 1 or even 2 weeks so that he can let the amp run in. So my guess is that this amp's certenly need a good run in time to get the best out of it. Altrough I don't know hor long he let it play before giving us that superb demo.

 

[acalex]

Hi,

Just a little update on the amp side of things.

The dealer has asked me to give the Perreaux more burn in time, so I've been leaving A CD on continuous play for the last couple of days.

However, this morning, I've noticed a rather distinctive hum coming from the unit, so immediately turned it off.

The perreaux is a highly detailed crisp sounding amp with a nice tight base and if I had never heard the Sugden, would probably be very content with it, but it just lacks that extra air, space and yes, emotion that you get with Class A.

Possibly if I'd been able to leave it on for another few days it may have opened out, but I'm not taking any risks.

Cheers

Mac

Weird because the Perreaux 250 we tried with Roby had plenty of details but was also very airy and was able to develop, matched with proper speakers, an huge and impressive soundstage.

Not weird... I take it the unit you heard was a demo model, so well run in. The one I've got is new out of the box.

Cheers

Mac

I see, sorry as I wasn't aware yours was a brand new amp. Then yes indeed the one we tried was well run in and all components were greatly selected for a great demo (the guy is an electronics engineer and build itself his own speakers, he's a good friend of Perreaux owner)

 

[Electro]

Hi ,

Just wondered if you have come to any decisions yet.

Judging by your posts so far it seems to me that you might end up keeping the Sugden and buying the Electrocompaniet EMC1UP .

I imagine that by now you understand why I love my EMC1UP player so much and why I was so keen for you to try it 🙂

It is an amazing piece of equipment that almost performs miracles with the humble 16 bit Cd and until you hear one it is impossible to describe how well it plays music to other people who have not heard it .

looking forward to hearing what you have decided to do 🙂

Electro .

 

[Macspur]

Hi ,

Just wondered if you have come to any decisions yet.

Judging by your posts so far it seems to me that you might end up keeping the Sugden and buying the Electrocompaniet EMC1UP .

I imagine that by now you understand why I love my EMC1UP player so much and why I was so keen for you to try it 🙂

It is an amazing piece of equipment that almost performs miracles with the humble 16 bit Cd and until you hear one it is impossible to describe how well it plays music to other people who have not heard it .

looking forward to hearing what you have decided to do 🙂

Electro .

Hi Electro,

Certainly at this moment in time the best combo is the Sugden amp and EMC1UP, but the matching Sugden CDP should be here some time in the oncoming week.

I will be amazed if the Sugden is better, but I must try and keep an open mind.

I did ask one Company for a home demo of the ECI-5 amp, but they weren't willing as it was ex demo and against their policy. I will probably live with the IA-4 for a while longer, save some pennys and see what comes up.

Cheers

Mac

 

[Macspur]

Hi,

Just a little update on the CDP side of things;

The Sugden arived tonight and first impressions pin point imaging, great instrument seperation, delicate and very transparrent. Build quality... probably the most unimpressive and certainly the lightest high end machine I've handled thus far, with quite a cheap looking plastic tray.

Not ready to make any decision just yet.

Cheers

Mac

 

[CnoEvil]

I look forward to the outcome, though the Electro will take a lot of beating.

 

[Macspur]

I look forward to the outcome, though the Electro will take a lot of beating.

As has proved to be the case Cno.

I've listened to both players solidly for the last couple of evenings, playing a mixture of genres such as Jazz artists of the likes of Melody Gardot and Stacey Kent, to the pop of Coldplay/Elbow, along with folk singers like Cara Dillon and Lisa Hannigan, with a bit of electronica from Faithless thrown in for good measure and realise The Sugden is a very fine player, with obvious synergy with the IA4, but the EMC1UP has everything the PDT4-F has, but with more weight to the music an adds an unbeatable richness into the mix.

Will be making arrangements early next week to finally replace my CDX2!

Cheers

Mac

 

[CnoEvil]

I'm delighted you're getting sorted......though that leaves a problem - ie. when everyone is finally content, we will only be left with "discussions" about Active speakers, Cables and Hi-res music. :shifty:

 

[Macspur]

I'm delighted you're getting sorted......though that leaves a problem - ie. when everyone is finally content, we will only be left with "discussions" about Active speakers, Cables and Hi-res music. :shifty:

[/quote

Now you're for it! true though. lol!.

Cheers

Mac

 

[Electro]

Good choice

In nine years of ownership I have not regretted buying mine for one second 🙂

It just make every other source (including vinyl) that I have heard sound small and lacking in one way or another .

It combines weight and dynamics with intricate detail and air effortlessly ,and even with less than perfect recordings it always seems the find the best of the music .

Well done and enjoy !