parasound and anthem are different company, so expect differences in sound. The JTRs are rated at 2200 watts, the A51 is only 400 watts at 4 ohms so thought it might be short on power. The Anthem Mca 225 has a power output of 225 watts per channel, while the Parasound A21 has a power output of 250 watts per channel. Click here to email us, or call for advice on 0121 224 7300/7401 (9am to 5:30pm GMT Mon-Sat) Now Available: Tech Talk Podcast with Scott Wilkinson, Episode 19, https://www.d-sonic.com/amplifiers/multi-channel/three-channel/. Thanks so much. System is kinda in transition right now, but pics to come soon (guts and arse too). Powered by Xenforo, Hosted by Nimbus Hosting, Original design Critical Media Ltd. Wattage rating that high on a speaker is only telling you you could get silly loud before damaging it. The Rotel RMB-1585 that was recommended by another forum member here is also another great choice but I would go with the Parasound Halo A31 of A51 if I were you. It might mean one amp is more capable than another, whether that's better would depend on whether your speakers are of such a design that need it. It will also deliver an effortlessly dynamic performance when called upon. "Let our rigorous testing and reviews be your guidelines to A/V equipment not marketing slogans", Get our latest product reviews and AV stories emailed to you weekly. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. The amps on your list are very good ones and you probably wouldn't go wrong with any of them, however, I would recommend looking at the Rotel RMB 1585, big brother to mine, 5 channel though, but a monster for a great price. Need help with floorspeakers and subwoofer configuration, Recommendations for Side, Rear, and Center Speaker Stands, 2.2 kVA encapsulated toroid power transformer with independent, 164,000 F power supply filter capacitance, input impedance 47 k unbalanced; 94 k balanced, ACD 250 W/400 W, 8/4 Ohms, 0.2% THD at full power. Anthem 225 vs Parasound A21 vs Emotiva Xpa 7 Gen 2 Hey guys, I am looking for a very detailed sounding amp for Sacd playback.I am not interested in power output ,just smooth natural sound.These are my choices so far. No question about it. Pro amp for sure, but a 61 lbs class AB amp you and I both know there is something fishy about this one. Also, the spec says power consumption is 550 W typical and 1200 W high output. You must log in or register to reply here. Anthem has announced the newest versions of its high-end multichannel home theatre and music audio hardware with the launch of the new MRX 540, MRX 740 and MRX 1140 AV Receivers, the AVM 70 and AVM 90 AV Processors and three GEN2 power amplifiers in the form of the MCA 225, MCA 325 and MCA 525 amps. "Let our rigorous testing and reviews be your guidelines to A/V equipment not marketing slogans", Get our latest product reviews and AV stories emailed to you weekly. Is this something that any system can benefit from or is it inherant to Parasound products? Register today and take advantage of membership benefits. Overall, the Anthem MCA 525 was just a little smoother from top to bottom at high volumes, but the NAD does provide two additional channels for only $500 more -- a not insignificant difference if you're contemplating a seven-channel system. Beyond my paygrade. No, what I am saying is, its power supply does not look big enough for a 2 Ohm rating. Well, thanks for all the input. In the Sound&Vision test of the 1120, it measured 218.4 watts per channel with 2 channels driven simultaneously into 4 ohms. So it seems like all things considered the general opinion is A51 is the better amp, even though its 18 years older in design? The Studio 590 uses the technology that JBL engineers developed for pro-audio loudspeakers to deliver accurate, powerful sound to your living room. . Read about our review ethos and the meaning of our review badges. The amplifiers are all designed, engineered and manufactured in Canada. The Anthem has specs for 2 ohms, the Parasound doesn't. The A51 has better damping factor, but the Anthem has better SNR. Dead quiet, tons of headroom, superior driver control all make for a very tidy sound and it enabled me to start getting my AC infinity fans out of my rack. Of the three, go with the Parasound A51 to match with the Studios.. Having owned several Paradigm speakers and Parasound amps in different configurations, they are a near perfect match. Anthem MCA 325. At 3,895, the price of entry for this performance is perhaps a touch too steep. In addition, compression drivers aren't made for residential use. company number 03997482, registered in England and Wales. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Hopefully this time, it doesn't get damaged in shipping like the one a few weeks ago. Thank you for the adviceit is appreciated! I think the closest company to me that I really care about is VPI but I can never find it when I used to travel to that area. Must be the local Bay Area influence. fatstrat New Member Thread Starter Joined Feb 21, 2020 Messages 8 Location Pa More Thanks for the feedback. Very tempting but I live in apartment and already have trouble with storing existing gears where am I going to put these? Please Help! Reality is that with accurate testing methods, good amps/AVRs dont alter the sound of the speakers. I hooked up my speakers via banana plugs, which fit snugly into the Anthems binding posts. Looks like we run into the age old comparison of bipolar versus MOSFET too. I had forgotten about these. The Anthem MCA 525 Gen 2 tested here is the five-channel model in a new line-up that includes the three-channel MCA 325 Gen 2 and two-channel MCA 225 Gen 2. The Anthem has specs for 2 ohms, the Parasound doesn't. Yeah the future is high quality class-D like the ATI AT525NC (200x5) and others. It is outwardly elegant yet built like a tank. The new MCA Series delivers lower THD (total harmonic distortion) for more clean, pure sound and lower noise for a supremely quiet background. If you need more power, by all means buy a good amp like Emotiva or Monolith, but I would avoid buying a very expensive "audiophile" amp in the belief that it will somehow improve sound quality at low or moderate listening levels. Studio 590 | 250-watt, dual 8" floorstanding loudspeaker, Need help with floorspeakers and subwoofer configuration, Recommendations for Side, Rear, and Center Speaker Stands. The MCA 525 is fitted with two massive low flux toroidal power transformers which are shared between all channels. What is your PayPal address? The A51 has 3 - 4 above for ventilation and the A23 has 2 above. I briefly owned an AVM60 as a potential replacement for my Classe SSP800, but unfortunately was no match in sound quality so I sold it. Then Anthem is Class AB. Other than that a fan of bipolar over MOSFET, Ted I'm still waiting. Again, the likes of P5 are real deals when it comes to high current, but they are electronic dinosaurs. So what are you asking for the Parasound? Camel Air Born: The MCA & Decca Years 1973-1984 (box set with 5 albums in 5.1 on blu-ray), MMH - New Atmos Decoder (beta) discussion, Multichannel Media Players, File Storage & Ripping, Tears For Fears "The Hurting" (SDE Blu-Ray #9 with Steven Wilson 5.1 & Dolby Atmos mixes! I tested the MCA 525 connected via XLR to the AVM 90 that I had in for evaluation at the time. True though, with the added power you would have plenty of headroom to play insanely loud! All three share the same core construction and outward appearance, with the only difference being the number of channels. That's a lot being shared but not very much compared to the likes of the Monolith, Outlaw and Parasound amps that don't share or at least not to the same extent for all channels (. None of this will tax the MCA 525. Not much to base amp needs on. Lol so that website says, with 2 speakers, 101 sensitively, 1 watt amp power and distance of 12 feet, I'll get 95 decibels of sound. These make use of 8 high-current bipolar output transistors per channel! Hi mates, what external power amplifier would you guys recommend between the Anthem MCA 525 and Parasound A52+? As stated before, your Anthem receiver is well known for sound quality and excellent performance overall, so stepping up to a larger amp would definitely help fill a larger room without strain and maintain excellent sound quality. Obviously, the McIntosh is considerably more then the other two. Looking purely at the published specifications, I would guess they are more alike than different. If you are concerned about heat though, want more power (that you may or may not need), and more value while maintaining high build/sounds quality, you could look at one of these: https://www.d-sonic.com/amplifiers/multi-channel/three-channel/ The one notable practical difference was that the MCA 525 has higher voltage gain (29dB) than my amps (26dB), which meant I turned the volume up slightly less for a given SPL. The promotion photos for the MCA Gen 2s show them stacked on one another, with an AVM processor at the top of the pile. If a speaker is naturally fatiguing by nature and design (the Klipsch RF-7 III's come to mind, seemed to have lots of bass and highs but no mids) then can EQ'ing adjust for this? I know that A51 have more power than A5 but I have easy to drive speakers: Paradigm Studio 40 v4. I currently have and will use the Yamaha CX-A5100 Processor. I'd love to hear them. I'm very happy with the results. Parasound Halo A51 5 Channel Power Amplifier. Its built like a tank yet looks sophisticated from the front. Being designed to accompany the AVM series, the MCA 525 will pair perfectly with the new processors, so AVM owners neednt trouble themselves thinking about gain structure. A51 costs me $4K and I can get A5 for around $3K so does $1K is worth for that extra power and what extra or sound quality I am going to get with that extra money. Its worth pausing here briefly to note the quality of the binding posts. The speakers I'm looking to power are 4 ohms with compression driver if that makes any difference, JTR to be exact. I found something from Anthem last night that said special circumstances required for 2ohm test. Stereo setup: MSB Select ll DAC w/ 2 separate mono powerbases (PSU) & Femto 33 clock, Taeko Audio SGM Extreme music server; Clearaudio Statement v2 turntable, Statement TT tonearm, Statement Goldfinger cartridge & separate PSU; D'Agostino Momentum phono pre; Naim Statement NAC S1 linestage preamp & Naim Statement NAP S1 monoblock amps; Magico M6. The P5 is stable all the way down to 2 Ohm loads and is prodigiously powerful. Hi All, potentially closing a deal on the Anthem AVM 70 and could potentially cut a deal if I get the matching Anthem MCA 525 Gen 2, which is a 5 channel power amp. I was using a Parasound A52+ for my 5 base channels and recently went to NAD C298 for my LR channels (I also playback all 2CH music via analog path as described above) and I really like the NAD. In truth, it should have more power as the 2205 retailed for $2500 compared to $799 for the Emotiva. So, for example, an 8 ohm speaker might have impedance dips below 4 ohms, or a 4 ohm speaker might dip below that, which can prove challenging for some amplifiers. Because of living overseas everything is at a premium so want as much information I can get before making a decision. Active/Powered Speakers Subwoofers Portable Speakers Wireless Speakers Dipole and Atmos Speakers Tweeters Soundbars In Ceiling & In Wall Speakers On Wall Speakers 5.1 Speaker Packages Unique Speakers Audio Affair Exclusive Speaker Deals Need help choosing? Anthems MCA 525 Gen 2 power amplifier is a sophisticated piece of engineering from the Canadians. I currently have the following system in my home theater: I have a full 7.2.4 Canton system, with Ventos 896, 866, 876 + Atelier 900 as Back and 4x Inceiling 980, 2x XTZ 1x12 subs, and a Marantz SR7012 AVR. Monolith 3x. Ill give that a shot to see if that solves things. I can't believe they would rate the MCA525 2 ohms, that's not believable, not without caveat. I know that a Parasound Halo A31 would trump both of them but that is less channels and a little too much coin. Heck you can't have it all Mosfet and Tubes killer power cords. Anthem MCA 525 Gen 2 5-Channel Power Amplifier Review & Comments Doug Pyper Sep 25, 2022 Review Specs Discussion (27) 1 2 N nacdale Novice Member Nov 18, 2022 #26 Im really torn between this amp and the parasound A51 or A52+. Despite this, the Anthem will use less than 2W when in standby mode. Near Philly. Obviously, the McIntosh is considerably more then the other two. What subs are you going to use with the 212s? JavaScript is disabled. JTRs with that much power is a bit insane IMO. Looking to replace my Yamaha MX-A5000 with one of the above 5 Channel Amplifiers. Yamaha's latest 11-channel power amplifier offers serious amounts of power to drive your Atmos home cinema system, but it also adds in the ability to bridge the front channels to add even more grunt to your two-channel music. It was probably plugged into a modified Delorean when that test was performed. Anthem MCA 225 (Gen 2) 2-Channel Power Amplifier. Out of those 3 choices that you listed above, I would highly recommend the Parasound Halo A31 or A51 if you need a five-channel amp. Obviously, the McIntosh is considerably more then the other two. So not exactly full range. Anthem MCA 525 (Gen 2) 5-Channel Power Amplifier. The MCA 525 turned in a similarly accomplished performance with my other test songs. For rig details, see my profile. Or? The new MCAs are intended to partner either of the superb new AVM processors: the AVM 70 or AVM 90. You will go farther in performance doing it this way than the latter. The benefits that I perceive is a tad warmer sound and a slightly better mid and low end. Well I added a Rotel RMB 1555 amp to my Pioneer SC 57 receiver and don't regret it. What is the diaphragm made of? You will go farther in performance doing it this way than the latter. Along with monitoring the internal temperature, Anthems Advanced Load Monitoring technology will also monitor current and voltage to shut down affected channels under clipping conditions, thereby protecting both the amplifier and any speakers attached to it. Parasound A51 (click on specs) https://parasound.com/a51.php Anthen MCA 525 Gen2 (PDF spec download) I guess you can make the highs softer but will that work to reduce ear fatigue? I agree the MCA amp is the best among those but in my opinion it's transformer and the power supply as a whole, is actually not "huge" at all relatively speaking (to Outlaw, Monolith, Parasound's etc in the similar price range). CTC BBQ Amplifier, Sonic Frontiers Line3 Pre-Amplifier and Wadia 581 SACD player. For rig details, see my profile. I. NAD's latest Master Series power amplifier delivers seven channels of Class D grunt thanks to Purifi's new Eigentakt technology. The No. Not a great way to scratch the itch. AVForums.com is owned and operated by M2N Limited, I have seen a few places where Parasound makes a DAC. Here is a list of companies that make units with IcePower amps.. Of the two amps you mention in the original post, go with the Parasound. .120 dB Vs A51's 112 dB IHF A-weighted (Note: no idea what IHF is, probably an old standard, so this may be be an apples to apples comparison). It is outwardly elegant yet built like a tank. amps-preamps 154516-93863 McIntosh 255 vs Parasound Halo A51 vs Anthem MCA 525 Looking to replace my Yamaha MX-A5000 with one of the above 5 Channel Amplifiers. I currently have and will use the Yamaha CX-A5100 Processor. In these Parasound amplifiers both the positive and negative transistors for each channel are always fully on - the definition of Class A operation - up to 8 watts output per channel. A forum community dedicated to home theater owners and enthusiasts. You will go farther in performance doing it this way than the latter. 5-channel power amplifier; 225 watts per channel continuous power into 8 ohms. Orotund Desert Theater;11.7.4,Suspended Floor,14'x20'x10',100amp service,JVC-NX9,120" ATwoven Screen,Carada Masquerade Masking,OPPO203 & Panny ub820, Monolith HTP-1 Full DLBC,mini DSP-2X4HD,3 D-sonic Amps 2 M3a-61007ch,28007ch, ACInfinity Fans,L,R Polk SDA SRS-2.3TL,CC RTA-15TL's Fully Mod'd Crossovers,updated tweeters in Custom Cabinets,WS-SS-BSSBS Inwall Triad Silver LCR,4 Atmos Core5, Subs 4x JTR CAP-6000ULF,3xNearfields behind 1st row,2 Rows of 3 Seatcraft Excalibur Lx Seats & more. Or the transformer needed? Ya ok but I take my bi-polar trans anyday. Anthem MCA 325 (Gen 2) 3-Channel Power Amplifier. I dont think its an upgrade to get the Anthem if you already own the Parasound though. Whether that's worth the change to you, don't know. I had the AVM50 processor and MCA-50 amp (older model). Available in 5, 3 and 2-channel configurations, these new MCA amplifiers feature more robust and efficient power and heavy-duty reliability. Obviously, the McIntosh is considerably more then the other two. You would be correct, I'm a Curl head. You at some great distance from the speakers or reaching for ear damage? So yeah, no idea which is better! Nothing here anymore Toss Up, never heard a product from either company that did not sound excellent, sorry, but, well, OK if really pressed, Anthem, just because they make some excellent tube gear. Used to match them with a Marantz AV7005 before that. Obviously, the McIntosh is considerably more then the other two. This means it can deliver huge amounts of power instantly to any channel that demands it. Great post, looking at the Emotiva, Anthem and ATI two-channel amps myself. The A51 has better damping factor, but the Anthem has better SNR. Which would be the better way to go and why? I can personally attest that the MCA 5 (200 watts per channel, with one channel driven) does compare, arguably, with the lower powered B&K 5125 (125 watts per channel, with one-channel driven) in price and performance. You are using an out of date browser. Samsung 75" QLED, Amazon Echo x 5, Amazon Echo "sub", Amazon 4K Firestick, Bose QC35 II. High end baby. Obviously, the McIntosh is considerably more then the other two. But that had no audible bearing on sound quality. Just curious why you're adding an external amplifier? As long as this amplifier isn't expected to perform to the level of a $2000 plus amp and you don't demand high volume from tough-to-drive speakers, this is a wonderful amp. So, if you're looking for more power, the Parasound A21 is the way to go. The overall dimensions are (H x W x D) 169mm, 438mm, 460mm. Add to Cart. I currently have and will use the Yamaha CX-A5100 Processor. The new Anthem MCA amps all have identical amp boards for every channel. Yeah but, does that mean the MCA is better then? The MCA 525s input sensitivity is 1.5Vrms and voltage gain is 29dB, which is fairly typical for power amplifiers of its kind. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. 1 Home Entertainment Tech Resource. I am wondering if I will get the same response from my speakers once I hooked them up to one of these amps I am reviewing. Or is this a full range system without subs? It is a beautiful, muscle car of an amplifier, with sports car engineering. Anthem knows a thing or two about building solid, high-current power amplifiers, with conservatively-rated yet still impressive specifications. Video support includes 7 HDMI 2.0 inputs with 2 outputs, plus eARC for seamless integration with smart TVs. What's not to like? A51's Inter channel Crosstalk > 78 dB at 1 kHz > 63 dB at 20 kHz so I would say the A51's a lot better based on the typical shapes of XT vs freq., that the MCA's would likely be a few dB worse at 20 kHz. From available pictures it looks like it has 10X8,200 uf or 82,000 uf filter capacitance total. The MCA 525 Gen 2 is a fantastically clean sounding amplifier, which renders detailed audio even at low volumes. amps-preamps 154516-93863 McIntosh 255 vs Parasound Halo A51 vs Anthem MCA 525 Looking to replace my Yamaha MX-A5000 with one of the above 5 Channel Amplifiers. Those are some pretty kickass speakers. I currently have and will use the Yamaha CX-A5100 Processor. https://www.anthemav.com/downloads/Anthem-MCA-525-325-225-Gen-2-081020.pdf, https://www.anthemav.com/products-archived/model=mca-525/page=specs, Need help with floorspeakers and subwoofer configuration, Recommendations for Side, Rear, and Center Speaker Stands.