sub Posted November 5, 2013 Posted November 5, 2013 As per previous post, I had ordered this amp from Totally Wired to complete my 5.1 HT set up. I have the Denon 3806 which is no slouch when it comes to HT (and not bad for stereo either when used in "Pure Direct" mode). However the Denon uses a lot of power and as we now live off grid relying on solar power, needed something that uses less power. The 1565 being a Class D amp fits the bill only using 250W max, and I now use the Denon as a preamp/processor. Been using the set up in stereo (also tried 5 channel stereo to make sure all channels working OK) this morning, playing "Missing, Presumed Having a Good Time" by the Notting Hillbillies (a particularly well recorded CD) and things sound really great. Everything seems to be there and PRAT is spot on - had me grooving and tapping my feet. I think it sounds marginally better than the Denon for stereo, although not quite as refined (and "full" or "weighty") as my main stereo set up - Rotel RCD-990, Sony PS-X555ES linear tracking TT, Linn Pre and Power tek, with Mission 753 spkrs. I listened firstly through the CD inputs on the Denon (which are connected to the LF&RF analogue outs on my Oppo 103) then via the DVD input (where the sound comes from the Oppo via HDMI). Through the CD inputs is vastly superior. I have yet to try watching a movie, but will be doing that tonight. Have just bought "Star Trek - Into Darkness" on BR. Probably be some sensory overload going on - not only a new amp, but also this will be the first BR movie we have ever watched.
sub Posted November 6, 2013 Author Posted November 6, 2013 Just finished watching my first blu ray movie. "It was just like being at the movies" - well not quite, but my new set up really shone and for HT use I have to say, in our new much smaller room, it is just as good as the old system I had before moving house (Denon 3930, Denon 3806, Dynaudio Audience 82 fronts, Proac Tablette 2000 for surrounds, KEF centre - didn't need a sub with those Dyns!) Dialogue was wonderfully clear and all the sound effects were very impressive adding the odd "startle" effect now and then. As to blu ray v standard DVD, well yes the picture is somewhat better and fine detail quite a bit clearer, but can't say the picture quality blew me away. Yes, blu ray is better than standard DVD, but not by the margin I was expecting. All in all, a very enjoyable movie experience. As to CD stereo playback on this system, further listening revealed some issues. "Simple" uncongested music sounds fine, but start playing complex classical music, and things are not so good - acceptable, but strings are just a little edgy, brass a little too brassy. I put that down to the front spkrs, which are Energy CR 10s (supported by Mirage 8" SW) switchable diplole/bipole designed for surround use not fronts. I sense an outlay on another pair of speakers - tempted by the new KEF LS50 50th Anniversay Ltd Edition. I've owned KEF Uni-Q speakers before and their ability to spread music so you don't have to sit with your head locked in the "sweet spot" is one of their best features.
Recommended Posts