I just took delivery last week of a JRDG Continuum integrated. I'm told it contains a Pascal amplifier module. This replaces a pair of NCore 400 monos and a JRDG Capri preamp that I have used for about 20 months now. While the NCore/Capri pairing was very good to my ears, the Continuum is much better in terms of articulation, black background, and parsing of massed strings or voices in harmony. It really seems to perform at a significantly higher level.
It would be hasty, I think, to attribute this solely to the amplification design employed in the finished product however. The balanced cables I used in the former system were certainly inferior to the internal connection in the Continuum. The Ncores were assembled for me by the esteemed Mike Galusha using a pair of Parasound cases he had on hand. He said that their sound was indistinguishable from his own NCores. They are nice but do not come close to the build quality and materials used in the Rowland. And the Continuum contains the new, redesigned Capri S2 which is supposed to be head and shoulders superior to the original I replaced.
So apples to apples this is not. And bargains are more elusive than reviewers make them out to be. I bought my Continuum with a phono card but it can be purchased with an optional DAC card onboard instead of the phono, or with neither. Though it might be quite a stretch to get into a Continuum, do think about whether or not you can manage it, given that it replaces amp, preamp, and primary source conversion all in one chassis. I felt like I was sticking my neck way out there buying this thing but it only took a couple of hours for me to realize I had invested well. You get what you pay for, they say. Probably the Roy Gregory review did the most to convince me. Now I'm wondering if I'm crazy enough to hang my butt out there for an Aeris DAC. |
This appears to be the Pascal amplifier module present in my JRDG Continuum S2 integrated amplifier.
http://www.pascal-audio.com/downloads/M-PRO2_Datasheet-2_1.pdf
At this point I have had it in use for a week. Most of that time it has carried TV and FM signals. Today I plan to devote some time to careful listening. The apparent superiority over my NCore 400 mono amps came as a surprise to me. Before I bought the Rowland I was concerned that the NCores were irreplaceable. Those fears are now assuaged and I am honestly beginning to wonder if I may have blundered into the new State of the Art. One matter that prevents that optimism from blooming fully is the awareness that Jeff uses the Hypex NCore 1200 modules in his 825 and 925 flagship models. On the other hand, the early reports I've seen evaluating the Pascal designs suggest a new paradigm.
Well, it doesn't matter much really. I've made my bed, so to speak. At this price level I shan't be making frequent changes. However, I find myself thinking about the Aeris DAC. That same Roy Gregory who touted my amp so accurately, has also written in strong terms about the excellence to be found in the Aeris. Since my present sources are no doubt restraining what my system can do, I'm dreaming about better digital. The Aeris costs too much to be an experiment so perhaps an OPPO BDP 105 would be sufficient to properly evaluate my Continuum. Can anyone offer an opinion about this without completely hijacking Tim's thread? |
Audiozen - while I can't pretend to understand everything presented on the Pascal data sheets, I can state that the XPro 3 is 3 channel, the XPro2 is 2 channel and the XPro 1 is 1 channel.
Since I am unfamiliar with the D Sonic line, I do not know what an m3 - 1500m amp purports to do but I can tell you that the number of channels it embodies will indicate quite accurately which module it employs. In order for it to be stereo, it would have to utilize either the XPro 2 or two XPro 1modules.
Limited experience with my new amp and reports from the reviewing community have me believing in Pascal's message. Which amplifier do you use? |
Guido - You flatter me by suggesting I blog about my new amplifier. I have neither the hearing acuity, comparative experience or verbal flourish to carry forth a worthy monologue. I will instead refer interested parties to the opinions of Roy Gregory who convinced me of the merits available in the Continuum S2. Perhaps others will be as motivated as I was.
Here's the link:
http://www.pascal-audio.com/downloads/M-PRO2_Datasheet-2_1.pdf
Anyone who has ever thought about buying that last amplifier should consider this one. It is solid, compact, beautiful, and uses little energy. Mine runs cool to the touch, remains dead silent, and appears able to drive any speaker. Until now I have harbored some regrets over having sold my Concentra integrated a few years back. Now those regrets have vanished. |
My apologies, everyone. I inadvertently (carelessly?) provided the wrong link in my las post above. The Roy Gregory review of the JRDG continuum S2 is linked here:
http://jeffrowlandgroup.com/us/documents/reviews/JRDG_ContinuumS2_01-2014.pdf
I hope it helps with the comparison. |
Tim - A couple of corrections are in order. The JRDG Continuum S2 lists for $9500. You can have a phono card installed in the first input for and additional $350 OR you can have a DAC card installed in the first input slot for $450. You cannot choose both. It is either/or on phono OR DAC OR neither one.
My dilemma with considering the Aeris DAC is bigger than you realize. The Aeris is an outboard DAC intended to take over state of the art and some people say it is a definite contender. It retails for $9800. That's why I am having so much trouble with the idea.
And lastly, thanks for providing your comments on the OPPO 105.
Oh, and BTW, I determined which Pascal amplifier module is in my amp by comparing the picture of its internals in the Roy Gregory review to the photos on the Pascal site. It is a dead ringer.
I do not wish to impugn Matt Kraemer, especially since he may be right and me wrong. My info is strictly the product of my research and my methods may not stand up to reality if challenged. For the record, though, I felt I had it right. |
Tim - When choosing your next amplifier, you might find that the Rowland is a wiser choice for a number of reasons. In my own experience, I was able to realize a very significant upgrade by moving from Hypex NC 400 monos to the stereo Continuum. In both cases, I used a Capri preamp but the latter case included the more recent and reputedly superior Capri S2 in board. While I'm sure that made a difference, I think the improvement in amplifier selection was greater. Since you do not intend to employ a preamp at all, perhaps this has no meaning in your pursuit. On the other hand, I would not overlook the Rowland implementation as an important factor, nor would I fail to consider the notoriously high Rowland resale. As one who has purchased his 26th final amplifier upgrade, I have become sensitive to that consideration. All of the Rowland gear is manufactured and serviced in Colorado Springs and Jeff himself handles every piece.
Unless there is an unworkable gap in pricing consideration, I would certainly prefer JRDG after my recent comparison. |
My guess is Tim is looking for the amplifier counterpart of his speakers. Since he has no use for a preamp, I suppose that would mean he wants extremely cost-effective more than low priced. Additionally, I would imagine that he is looking for a solution that will remain viable for years to come. That, of course, depends on how much he allows us and the audio press to fill his head post purchase.
Isn't it clear to everyone that our hobby is driven by dissatisfaction more than anything else? Who amongst us has a system that outright sucks? That's what I thought - we could all stop right where we are and live happily ever after if not for the nagging suspicion that we are indeed missing something.
At least, that's how it has been for quite a few years now. But I would submit that the introduction and steady improvement of D Class amplification has created a paradigm shift. World class amplification at real world pricing has caused many of us to seek upgrades that just a few years ago were patently unavailable at our budgets.
The other interesting development is that kit building is experiencing a revival of sorts. Have we come full circle around to the Heathkit/Dynaco world? Not quite yet --- but the seeds are being sown. Nowadays we have manufacturers producing amplifier boards that can be purchased by end users for DIY, and established amplifier designers opting to purchase these overachieving boards for their amps rather than trying to compete with them from scratch. This trend, I think, bodes well for consumers like us.
So, Tim, I have to recommend that you take into account the initial purchase price, of course. But also think in terms of depreciation, which can be averted to varying degrees by buying used, warranty which usually does not follow used pieces when they change hands and reliability/serviceability which points toward the older more established source with the best overall reputation for QC before and customer service after the sale.
All of that points me toward Rowland. In fact it did direct me to Rowland.
That means I have an extra pair of NC 400 monos to dispense. Good as they are (and I mean incredibly good given their price point) the Continuum has shown itself to be much better. If the 525 is as good as my amp, there is no room for discussion. Buy it!!! |
Beatlebum - I'm sorry to have to disappoint you but I just don't subscribe to the power cord thing at all. I'm not saying they don't have the potential to alter the sound, as many a person swears by them. My feeling is that Jeff Rowland is as capable as any wire designer out there and considering the lengths he goes to in designing an amp like ours, I just can't imagine that he would compromise the performance over a power cord negligence.
Different is not necessarily better --- although if you or someone else succeeds in convincing you of the superiority of a device, it then becomes better. It's a pick your poison kind of game since most aspects remain subjective and therefore open to any interpretation.
Have you tried the Flavor 5?
Sorry to be flippant if that bothers you --- I just don't care to pick at tiny nits.
Tell Guido I feel the same about his obsession with break-in. Subjective means just what it says. No absolutes. Everything is SUBJECT to change. Atmospheric pressure, humidity, your mood, ambient sound, time of day, the of wire, degree of isolation, sinuses, etc. can and probably will contribute to irregularities of comparison. And then beyond that what about the very real issue of importance. Isn't it just a tiny bit possible that we inflate the significance of all this to make ourselves feel we're doing something that really matters?
I like my big horns and my little amp and I'm thinking about improving my digital source. Do any of you have experience with the JRDG Aeris? |
Don't want to be pennywise and pound foolish.
Tim, I still have to guide you toward Rowland. Yes it is expensive and yes I have a pair of NCore to sell you instead but In good conscience I have to say that Jeff has been selling his stuff worldwide for 30 years and has amassed thousands of happy customers, many of whom are repeat buyers. Rowland gear is amongst the best for resale and the reliability factor is a big reason why. Bite the bullet. The fact that there are cheaper alternatives does not make JRDG a bad choice. Imitators usually cost less. An Aluminati amp is unlikely to generate any interest if you choose to sell it in a few years. They will become a footnote if they are remembered at all. Imagine how silly this sounds to say we have been machinists for a combined 30 years and we cannot see where these amplifiers can be improved. I've been a lifeguard for 30 years and can't see where this DAC could be improved. The experience does not seem to qualify the opinion very well.
Since you love your present amp but are looking to replace it nonetheless, it seems unlikely that you are shopping for your last amp now. Hence, resale should be on your mind if you are looking to invest wisely.
Which makes more sense, buying an amp for $2000 that you can't resell at all, or buying an amp for $4500 which will likely fetch $3500 for the next several years and resell quickly?
I used to know Jeff quite well back in the 1980s but we haven't seen each other since I took a repair to him about 14 years ago. I have no interest in the company or any sale other than my own NCores which would probably be the second best option. Best would be standing pat with the amp you love and already own.
Take a trip to Colorado with your money instead. I'll buy you lunch and show you around. Be sure to bring the camera. Scenery in these parts is incomparable. |
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That's easy, Dan. Just pack up your Ayre and come on over. I'm retired now. Plenty of time to accommodate an audiophile friend. And you would have the opportunity to hear my horns. |
Audiozen - have you any idea about comparison between JRDG Continuum S2 and the Peachtree X-1 aside from the fact that the Rowland costs twice as much? A cursory examination has them looking comparable. |
You guys seem to be comparing guitars and ignoring the musicians.
Most people in this hobby are entirely too price conscious.
Just a couple of observations --- make what you will of them. |
Tim - It doesn't matter a bit whether or not something better exists. Pursuing the latest and greatest will make you crazy and broke and can lead to nothing but regret eventually. What you have coming should be very satisfactory as long as you keep your mind in the listening room and out of the magazines. This entire industry is built on dissatisfaction. You already tried to beat the system and failed to do so, breaking about even, and caused yourself worry and delay in the process. The real way to beat the system is to be happy with what you've got. |
And we are all still mingling beneath Tim's balcony awaiting the puffs of white smoke. Has he named a successor to the venerable ClassD or will the search continue?
For my part, I am seriously considering ditching all this big stuff and switching over to powered studio monitors. I think that's where the most sophisticated engineering is to be found. Not to derail this thread but just to keep the ball in the air while we wait impatiently for more news. It will be difficult to part with my horns. And my Continuum. But you can't move forward while hanging onto things behind you. Who said that? Was it the Dalai Lama or Yogi Berra? |
Right here in real time before my very eyes useless speculation is being raised to the level of an art form. What is the point? You sound like a bunch of teenage girls worrying about whether or not John is married.
The amps are what they are and you can buy one if you like. Does it really matter all that much which module is in use? Isn't the real goal to just set and forget your system so as to enjoy the music it produces?
Can you picture yourselves on a refrigerator forum arguing about the new Amana and it's lineage as suggested by similar specs or a perceived implication in the ad copy? Do you see how silly you look?
And for gods' sake, is it really worth dismissing each others thoughts, name calling or insults?
Find something important to pursue. I'm in the midst of implementing a photovoltaic system on my roof. Got to take advantage of the 30% tax credit while it is still available - then I'll return to anguishing over which shell hides the pea or which celebrity is the hottest or whose the greatest QB of all time or whose Dad is tougher or whether Mom liked you best or any of a thousand other great mysteries that keep the internet forums buzzing.
Merrill is sing the NC 550 module. |
Guido - my imagination does not have a URL. |
Kuribo - Rooftop install is all finished, we hope. The county inspector is the next hurdle.
Guido - My panels are made in Oregon by a German company. No input from Iowa religious cults or Dutch geniuses as far as I know. I will say the Enphase Micro-Inverters are supremely cool. You buy a monitor called The Envoy which plugs into your router and your wall enabling it to monitor each panel individually showing its output in real time on my computer screen. I could even get a phone app to watch. Probably won't do that though. |
Guido - my imagination does not have a URL. |
Guido - my imagination does not have a URL. |
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Kuribo - Rooftop install is all finished, we hope. The county inspector is the next hurdle.
Guido - My panels are made in Oregon by a German company. No input from Iowa religious cults or Dutch geniuses as far as I know. I will say the Enphase Micro-Inverters are supremely cool. You buy a monitor called The Envoy which plugs into your router and your wall enabling it to monitor each panel individually showing its output in real time on my computer screen. I could even get a phone app to watch. Probably won't do that though. |
Guido - Thanks for the correction. I guess I knew as much from reading and had forgotten to make that distinction. Would Belgians be offended by such an error?
County inspector finally showed up and, on his 3rd visit found nothing to criticize. We are approved but cannot utilize the system until Xcel Energy comes out and installs a "production meter" to finalize the circuit and initiate our "grid-tie" contract. From what I understand, that can take a month or more. |
Guido - I'm from N.J. Since I type with a profound Jersey accent, many don't seem to understand what I'm trying to say. It is likely that your Italian origins serve to bridge that gap for you.
Still living happily ever after with my Continuum S2. Besides sounding great with my jumbo horns, it scores big points for ergonomics, plastic remote notwithstanding. |
