PS Audio HCA-2 vs. Odyssey Stratos

gongos · « **on:** 11 Oct 2004, 01:43 am »

I'm wondering if anyone has any experience with both of these amps. I'm trying to decide between the 2 since they're about the same price on the used market. If anyone could explain what they see as the differences between the 2 I'd appreciate it. I'd eventually get them upgraded. I know modwright modifies the HCA-2. I'd really like to hear about a Modwright HCA-2. Thanks.

StevenACNJ · « **Reply #1 on:** 11 Oct 2004, 10:08 am »

Gongos

"I'd really like to hear about a Modwright HCA-2"

Email Dan @ ModWright he will honestly give you all the details.

batmanslc2 · « **Reply #2 on:** 11 Oct 2004, 02:39 pm »

I have had the pleasure of owning both of these fine amps. As you are aware they both have well deserved reputations. For my tastes, overall I preferred the HCA, but keep in mind the Odyssey stayed in my system for 2 years and I loved it. The HCA gave me a smoother and more alive type of sound. I also like the hi tech look and size of the amp. Just my 2 cents!
ENJOY,

RanjanM · « **Reply #3 on:** 17 Oct 2004, 02:59 am »

I've HCA-2 and PCA-2 both modified by Dan. The soundstage and resolution is excellent. Instruments separation, clarity, all so much better compared to the stock units. The bass is one of HCA-2's strength but the modified unit makes it top notch, not sure how to explain it, very deep I guess.

BWentler · « **Reply #4 on:** 17 Oct 2004, 07:28 pm »

What was your orginal cost for the pair and what was the cost for the mods?

Do you have the upgraded PS for the pre-amp>

Bruce

gitarretyp · « **Reply #5 on:** 17 Oct 2004, 08:52 pm »

The mods to the hca-2 are pretty easy to perform and are outlined on the reference audio mods forums. So, if you're handy with a soldering iron, you can mod the hca-2 to the level of the modwright mods (full level II - minus bybees) for ~$150. If you've never soldered before or have little experience with electronics, i would highly recommend sending it to modwright or reference audio mods. The mods do make a nice difference, adding more detail and punch to the bass, reducing the noise floor a bit, and clearing up the mids and highs (this was the most notable improvement to me).

For prices for the mods, see: http://www.referenceaudiomods.com/ or http://www.modwright.com/products/index.php?product_id=13. I've never seen any listings about modding the pca-2. I've lifted the transformer from the chassis, but that's all i've done to it. I'm a bit curious what was done to it

RanjanM · « **Reply #6 on:** 18 Oct 2004, 04:45 am »

The cost for each mod was $550, I don't have the upgraded PS.
After spending so much on both and upgrade, they are so good that I don't see the reason for the external PS. Dan also told me not to bother with the external PS.