cat jl3 signatures vs. atmashere ma2III's

Optarchie,

With 93db / 8ohm impedance, your speakers should be an easy load to drive. I'd think either of these amps would be overkill. I would consider the CAT JL2 or Atma MA1's instead. You'll save a ton of $$$. Of course if you change later to a very power hungry speaker, that's another story.
I've heard both the JL3s and MA2mkIIIs on multiple occasions, but never side-by-side. IMHO, the Atmas do things that few amps can do as well. They are incredible at untangling complex orchestral music while maintaining natural timbre and timing. The mkIIIs do indeed "do bass" quite well, and significantly better than the mkIIs. I really think they don't defer to the CATs in this or any other regard.
Another reason I would recommend Atma-Sphere is the superior support that Ralph & his team provide. He is one the the most gracious and helpful individuals in the biz, and will make himself readily available to help with anything from troubleshooting a bad tube to helping you with DIY mod advice on your other gear.
FYI, my bias is that of a happy owner of MA1s. FWIW, I've also owned CAT components. Cheers,
Spencer

They [Atma-Sphere amps] are incredible at untangling complex orchestral music while maintaining natural timbre and timing.

Bingo! And when paired with the latest version of Atma-Sphere's MP-1 preamplifier, they're even better at this !

Tim

The Atmashere is lusher and more musical. I am a huge CAT fan but their pre-amp is way better than their amp. The CAT amp is thin and doesn't have any drive.

In all the years I have read and participated in these forums, there have been a lot of ridiculous statements but this would takes the gold metal.

Optarchie - I have heard the CAT directly to the Atma-Sphere on SoundLab speakers and have reported on my findings in these forums. Check these out or contact me further details.

John

Agree with Spencer.

The Escalante Fremont presents a rather benign load and can be easily driven to paint peeling levels by the MA-1.

The MA-2, in this case, offer nothing more than a higher price and electric bill.

Disclaimer: AS retailer

I will join Sbank and Audiofeil in the belief that the MA-2 is overkill for an 8ohm / 93db sensitivity speaker, provided there are no insane impedance dips. The MA-1 should drive your speakers very well.

On another note, the MkIII updates to the MA-1 and MA-2 made a significant improvement in midrange purity and even lower distortion. Those who have not hear the MkIII upgrade may be surprised by the degree of improvement.
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