Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Stereo M22's and new ATI 1502

Got a new (used actually) ATI 1502 today and have it running in the background. I originally asked a question over at the Audioholics Forum about sound stage and whether or not the amp or pre-amp had any effect on the perceived depth/width of that stage.

After playing a great Candy Dulfer cut called 'Lily Was Here' on the Harmon Kardon 3480 and through my Axiom M22's with a Mirage Omni S8 subby both my wife and commented on how nice it sounded. She said she couldn't imagine it sounding any better and frankly niether could I.

So I hooked up the 1502 and played the same cut at the same Receiver -18 volume setting (I know this is not an accurate or scientific test of spl's). It was clearer, cleaner, and there was this tiny little cymbal like sound coming from the left rear that I didn't here before (or didn't THINK I heard before)

The M22's are really detailed speakers and the 1502 seemed to bring out that detail in spades. Of all the terms I've tried i.e. warm/bright/round/soft here's a new one that came to mind 'lovely'. So sweet and clear.

The differences were VERY noticable at volume. Where the HK got LOUD the 1502 seems to get better, and so much easier to listen to at volume. But it never seems to get LOUD. I worry about the speakers a bit and won't push too hard.

As far as the sound stage, I cannot really tell much difference. Again I am not A/B ing directly so all is very subjective. Seems to be much more 'present' than the HK but I don't know if that is a function of 'sound stage'

Another thing that I THINK I noticed was the imaging. Much sharper and detailed to my ears at least. As I listen now to an old Van Morrison cut, "Crazy Love" it just seems so easy to keep listening, especially for such an old recording. The M22's realy shine with the extra power. Nice.

Don't really know the effect of the HK3480 used as a pre-amp for the 1502 but it seems to work just fine. Next upgrade? Oh God I Hope Not!

Hope that helps someone make their decision in the future.

Oh and one thing I don't quite understand - my new placebo meter was pegged during the entire test.

Best to all

I'm glad this is working for you. I am a big fan of "big honkin' power amps" although I don't actually have one right now. I still wish I had not sold my big 'ol Marantz power amp.

Enjoy !!

Larry, I looked at just the first page of the Audioholics thread. The replies from mtrycrafts and WmAx primarily, accurately state the reality of the situation.

Enjoy the amp!

While not a very scientific test, I am glad that you enjoyed your new gear.

We had discussed, on many threads on this board, the average and peak power requirements for various listening (loudness) levels. I sometimes believe that the perceived difference is in the peak power differences between different tests because the average power level is more than within the rated range.

It's all about what YOU hear, but I agree because my amps made a difference in the SQ of my system.

bug: did you ever give an extended review of your new Monster amp? I have been pretty busy and may have missed it.