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Lol, it's REALLY obvious the volume pot doesn't track both channels evenly when used with my 2V RMS (max) DAC and 94 dB efficient speakers. The volume pot feels cheap and there's WAY, WAY too much gain in this amp as well. IMO the volume control and gain structure are a huge weak point in this amp and would be enough for me to not bother considering it or recommending it if the pot can't easily be bypassed and the gain can't be adjusted. It seems like this amp would be good for high-efficiency speakers but the gain and volume control make it so it doesn't work so well in this application... this seems really strange.
I think because it wasn't designed for hi efficiency audiophile speakers but for desktop and portable devices. The audiophile performance is purely coincidental. What needs to happen now is for a proper dedicated amp to be made, based on the chip used (or the newer chips, provided they sound better). That Mr. Plummer has no plans at this time to do so is... unfortunate.
DOS,I spoke to Jan about removing/bypassing the volume pot and he said it wasn't a good idea.I also asked him if a straight power amp was in the mix, with the same topology as the MG3 and he said no.Perhaps if there is enough interest in a straight amp he may consider it?Why not purchase one and figure out how to do the bypass.I would be very interested in finding out if it sounds better.I would do it, but I don't have the know how.Chris
Thank you Stephen for joining the tour. We appreciate your feedback. Stephen is sending the amp back to Rex for replacement of the AMR fuse. Are their any other candidates that want to hear the amp?It would be interesting to hear the TBI with the IFI IDAC on a pair of Tectonic M-Lores. That would have to be a best buy system that anyone would love to own for the money. That system would fall around $1500.
Don't see anything about the iTube on the iFi site yet, but all of their other gear has gotten pretty great reviews. Look forward to hearing your impressions, Tom.
Got a link with any iTube details?