The newer amps are perhaps a tad more top end extended throughout the new line. The CA151 might be the same as the older CA150 though. I liked the CA150 more than any of the other classe amps(never tried the CA400 though). I owned the CA100/150/300, all. The CA150 was the best of these, easily. However, the older amps were not that strong at all! They claimed doubling into 4 ohms, but I think this was stretched! They didn't drive several of my speakers that strong really, and didn't float the sound like they should have on speakers such as Thiel 2.3's(althought acceptable), and Sonus Faber Minima and Electa Amators. There are stronger amps out there, yes. Even McCormack DNA.5's, Aragon's amps, Krell's, Bryston, Pass X150, Coda 0-100,Older Threshold, etc, all were stronger. I like the sound for the money on the older CA series stuff, but top end is not as extended on the older series as other better stuff, and it's slightly Euphonic sounding, with less sharp immaging. Depending on speakers, for the money, you may get away with using the classe's with no problem. Well balanced amp for the $ though, worth a shot if the price is right...what speakers do you have?...preamp?...etc.
Do i get the old or new Classe amps?
I need opinions of Classe users. The advent of new Classe CA amps under the xx1 series - 151, 201, 301 and 401 have meant that the older series are now considerably cheaper used. Classe claims the new xx1 amps have better circuits and parts. How much significant is the sound improvement in the new design from the old model, eg the CA 200 vs the 201? Is it worthwhile paying premium for the new models? I am thinking of saving up for a Classe pre and power but am undecided if I should go for a used amp bargain or to go the full hilt and get them brand new.
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- 17 posts total
- 17 posts total