Ayre Monoblocks vs. Linn Klimax Solo 500s

Hi Matt, I didn't know the Linn's have dedicated fans for the switching power supply. I've always thought this kind of power supply is not generating much heat. The Classé's you've mentioned are far less powerful than the Linn's, but you think they have more authority. Could this be due to the fact that the Classé's have more dynamic limitation than the Linn + the fact that the Linn is much "faster" sounding? It is somewhat contradictory, but psycho-acoustically a less dynamic (and slower) amp can sound more "authoritative" than the less dynamically restricted and faster amp.

Chris

While it is somewhat outside of the scope of this thread, that's a good aural observation Dazzdax. Many people mistake apparent volume for SPL. In many cases, the apparent volume is actually a byproduct of distortion and the listening levels are not nearly as loud as they think. Systems that have extremely wide dynamic range without compression ( BOTH amps AND speakers ) can play VERY loudly without sounding strained. On such systems, one can very easily be listening at levels WAY beyond what they think to be "normal" with very little to no ear fatigue involved. Sean
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Thanks Sean. Sometimes a smaller amp with less Watt's and one that is more dynamically restricted can show more PRaT than a low distortion muscle amp. Also psycho-acoustical phenomenon.
So in certain way PRaT is a byproduct of distortion and dynamic constriction.

Chris

I am using the MX-R monoblocks with Maxx 2 speakers. My only personal experience with Linn was my previous system of Linn 5140 speakers with Linn bi amps. No comparison. The Ayre wins hands down. More palpable sound. You can differentiate between different bass drums, different notes and variations in Holly Coles voice from track to track. My authorized dealer was using the Linn Klimax mono with his Maxx 2's and he replaced them with the ayre MXR monoblocks.

I guess it's a NO-CONTEST. I ordered the Ayre Monoblocks! Can't wait!!!