Yesterday I finally managed to install my 'new' amplifier. I've replaced my old Denon PMA 520 , with a slightly younger Arcam A85, currently driving a pair of KEF Q1's. (small house, even smaller budget presently).
I enjoyed the Denon, but when the Arcam was switched on, and the first few bar's of George Benson's album 'Love Remembers' were played at a relatively low volume (the kids were already in bed) it was immediately apparent how much more control the Arcam has over these speakers. I think what I heard was more the result of this amp having good control over the bass speakers, so that other sounds are not being 'muffled'. This resulted in a more open, better soundstage, in which a good recording is able to grab your attention and makes you listen. I found myself alternatingly listening to the music, and then back to the system. Listening to the system will probably fade as I get used to it, and music will take over, which is what it is intended to do afterall. A good system shouldn't draw attention to itself, but let the music speak, and that it did yesterday.
Can't wait to try out some other albums and higher listening levels, and replacing my Q1's with different speakers such that I can place them differently and enjoy them better from my preferred listening position.
I enjoyed the Denon, but when the Arcam was switched on, and the first few bar's of George Benson's album 'Love Remembers' were played at a relatively low volume (the kids were already in bed) it was immediately apparent how much more control the Arcam has over these speakers. I think what I heard was more the result of this amp having good control over the bass speakers, so that other sounds are not being 'muffled'. This resulted in a more open, better soundstage, in which a good recording is able to grab your attention and makes you listen. I found myself alternatingly listening to the music, and then back to the system. Listening to the system will probably fade as I get used to it, and music will take over, which is what it is intended to do afterall. A good system shouldn't draw attention to itself, but let the music speak, and that it did yesterday.
Can't wait to try out some other albums and higher listening levels, and replacing my Q1's with different speakers such that I can place them differently and enjoy them better from my preferred listening position.