Parasound amps. HCA 1500a vs. 'upgraded' HCA1200

[Twanx]

I've been looking for a new amp to replace my NAD 2155 driving Vandersteen 2c's. I thought about trying tubes but I think my money is best spent on a power amp with 'amp'le power.

I have found two Parasound Amps of interest

1. HCA 1500A mint condition 205wpc
2. HCA 1200 great condition 200wpc. Seller says upgraded caps,resistors, and inputs. Bridging circuit removed (I am fine with this)

Which would be a better buy on the same $$$ range? The 1500 is newer but the 1200 has had work done. :scratch2:

Open to other suggestions, have also looked at Adcom gfa-555's


Thanks!

 

[Glen B]

With both amps equal in the power department, I would get the amp that has not been messed with. The 1500A is also a John Curl design. He's probably already used the best parts for the money where its likely to matter the most. Just my $0.02.

 

[Twanx]

Good point. In fact just a while ago I found an audio asylum thread where someone was attempting to mod an HCA 1200 and John Curl himself chimed in to say that only extremely marginal results would come from mods of any kind in that design. Was very interesting to read.

I would still like suggestions of other amps to consider

Thanks!

 

[CH46E]

I just purchased 1 of a planned pair of Parasound HCA-750. I too plan to run them bridged. Is this one of the amps by Curl?

 

[CH46E]

Thanks for the info. I did see a video last week on how to measure and adjust the bias. Something I will check for sure. My amp was supposed to be here today but now looks like Monday. Uuugh.