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Are ICEpower amps really that good?

Hi folks, it's getting a bit boring now, but I would like to hear your opinions about the following issue. I have the eAR ICEpower based amps (with the ASP1000 modules with built in SMPS). Some audiophiles and amp manufacturers believe they are just trash. In my opinion they are no slouch compared with the almost 8 times more expensive Accuphase A-50V stereo amp. In fact, I prefer the ICEpower amps above the Accuphase. Now I'm a bit in doubt (audiophiles are such weird creatures): are this sub $2k ICEpower amps really that good that they can compete with the $$$ Accuphase amp, or is it due to my own shortcoming (I might have some form of insidious and progressive hearing impairment) or is it just imagination? If the ICEpower amps are really that good, what's the point of buying $$$ amps? Btw, I have Dunlavy SC-V loudspeakers.

Chris
dazzdax
tvad
9,467 posts
 
There are those of us who like a certain sound quality when we listen, and some who just want to perfectly recreate a studio or concert hall recording, warts and all.
Exactly. So, the answer to the question, "Are ICE power amps really that good?", depends on what sound you're after.

There is no right answer that can be applied to everyone.
nicksgem10s
98 posts
 
Hi Tvad,

Can I ask you what preamp they paired the Nuforce Ref 9.02SE with at the show? I am curious to know. Thanks

Dazzdax,
I haven't heard your specific amps but the Nuforce have me rethinking what was possible at different price points. I auditioned the Nuforce in my own system and was pleasantly suprised. I don't own them yet.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
06-04-06: Nicksgem10s
Hi Tvad,

Can I ask you what preamp they paired the Nuforce Ref 9.02SE with at the show? I am curious to know. Thanks
I believe it was the NuForce P-8 preamp, but I'm not certain.
guidocorona
4,114 posts
 
ICE-based amps are not necessarily inexpensive. See for example the Rowland 302 stereo and the 301 monos.
hack
185 posts
 

My reference amps include a BAT VK-500 with BAT Pack and a Classe DR-8 amplifier. I listened to several ICE amps in a variety of set-ups, to my ears they didn't seem to have the current to handle transients well. Very linear, uninvolving sound to 'em. That's not to say they can't be improved upon, maybe a manufacturer will incorporate the ICE principles with a massive power supply and make their product more appealing to the discerning 'phile. I want to think this will be the new wave in amplification, but I suspect there's a maturation process that is (so far) in the very early stages. Stay tuned?
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