Parasound Halo A21 Listening Impressions

For many years I've had Tube Power Amps in the Stereo. Once I heard that 3D, Holographic Presentation, I was hooked.

My last Solid State Amp was a Parasound HCA 1500A. This was my introduction to a 'Quality' Two Channel Amplifier.

Even though I was quite happy with the Tube Amps I had in place, when Parasound announced the release of the new Halo Line, I was taken aback by the Striking Appearance of the Amplifiers, and the reviews that followed. I knew immediately that one day, I would have to own one of the A21's.

But, there were two issues, the price was more than I could afford, and they only offered the Halo Line in Silver. I'm a fan of Black Gear (I know, it shouldn't matter, but it does).

Years go by and one day Parasound announces the updated Black Version...know I've got it bad. Still can't afford a new model, but one day maybe a nice used one.

That day finally came a couple of weeks ago, when I purchased a VERY nice A21 from Forum Member, Patrick aka 'sgmsmg'. The Amp arrived quickly and in Pristine condition, better that Patrick had described.

With the aid of my Son, we packed this Big, HEAVY thing downstairs into my listening room. Nothing can really prepare you for just how freaking big the A21 really is. The sheer size and heft of this thing is 'almost' too much

Once I set the A21 on top of the Rack and started hooking everything up, I had a feeling that I was in for a treat. The appearance of the A21 is Bold and Muscular, yet Classy. For me, a piece of gear has to look good in order to sound good (I know...)

With my Son and Wife both working from home, I have to respect their need for peace and quiet, as both are continually on Conference Calls. I haven't been able to really 'Turn the Dogs loose' until last evening.

The most notable change in the SDA's was the Iron Fisted grasp the A21 had on the Mid-Drivers, everything snapped into a clear image, revealing every nuance the Music had to offer...in great detail, yet very smooth in the same breath. A sound picture I've always strived for, 'Detailed, yet Smooth' a combination that can be difficult to achieve.

I played several CD's and Streamed a few cuts as well, all of which told me that the A21 and the SDA's were a PERFECT match for each other. I've read this comment from several different owners over the years, now I know what you all have experienced as well, and also wonder why I waited so long to make this happen.

The SDA's were spreading the Soundstage Wall to Wall, and the placement and 'Air' around the performers and instruments was an experience I've heard many times, but not at this level of Timbre, Accuracy, and Authority.

Although I love that rich Tube Tone, the A21 has shown me what a Good Solid State addition can provide. The match between the Tube Preamp and the A21 is exceptionally good.

The Stereo has never sounded so "Right".