Posted by Rick on February 19, 2003 at 17:12:46:
In Reply to: Re: Classe' Omega Omicron Amp posted by Art T on February 19, 2003 at 15:53:41:
The Atmasphere I am comparing to is the MA-1 MKII model since it was in the price range I was looking for. I was using the MA-1 as the benchmark for the Classe' to compete against or at least meet the same standards. The basis for the comparison was a "quick" audition in home.
What I found with my ears was that there were hardly any differences at all. The only thing that I could slightly tell (and I had to listen very carefully) was slight incremental adavantage in "warmth." You can never beat a tube in warmth. However, what I noticed on the Classe' was that the "warmth" was very close to the Atmasphere. If the Classe' amp was priced near its original retail price I would have chosen the MA-1. However, given the price point offered me on the Classe' it was too hard to turn down. Second I was offered with the opportunity to upgrade to the Omega or Omicron monoblocks by trading in my old Omicron for the price I paid for it within 2 years.
Again, this is my opinion and one that needs to be validated since everyone has their own tastes in what sounds best.