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Post by routlaw on Nov 21, 2019 16:14:12 GMT -5
As the title might suggest I just couldn't stand not knowing any longer and ordered a pair of the DR-1 Mono Blocs, even though I already own the XPA-1 Gen 2 mono blocs. The following is what I hope to gain from this potential transition. 1. Lighter weight black boxes, by a substantial margin. 2. Cooler operation: the XPA-1 Gen 2 generates a lot of heat when in Class A mode which is how I use them for music, though not for HT. 3. Perhaps more energy efficient, only time will tell for this. 4. Enhanced performance over my existing amps due to the regulated power supplies and Class H topology. Item #4 will be a tall order granted, but if its a draw or even a subjective change for mostly good I'll be a happy camper. While I was at it I also ordered an XSP-1 pre amp and few accessories (CMX-2 & 6) which will allow more analog inputs including two balanced. It remains to be seen if there will be a performance boost over the XMC-1 or 2 which I am skeptical of given the sound quality of the XMC-1 in reference stereo mode. However it will be welcome component once my XMC-1 ships out for the trade, when ever that might be, tick-tock, tick-tock   . Apparently it takes a couple of weeks to build these things so it will be some time before I can report on how they compare, should anyone else be as curious as me. Suffice it to say lots of hand wrenching over this decision but had also considered the PS Audio Stellar M700 mono blocs that receive unanimous praise. |
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Post by tropicallutefisk on Nov 21, 2019 17:40:19 GMT -5
Fellow DR1 owner here, and I've had mine for about a year. I cannot compare to the XPA-1 G2 monos, but I can compare to the XPA-1L. You will certainly appreciate the reduced weight and they do not run as warm as the XPA-1L did. I have not paid attention to efficiency, so I cannot offer any insight on this. As for performance, I'll be very curious to hear your comparison against your XPA-1 G2s. When I purchased the DR1s my intent was just to replace a McIntosch MC152 stereo amp. I was so impressed I ordered a third to replace my XPA-1L that was running my center channel speaker. The 1L is a great amp and was my first Emo product. As for how it compares to the DR1, they are quite close. I'd describe the DR1 as more refined and smoother which is also my way of saying it just sounds effortless and natural. It pounds out tons of bass and the highs are clear and non fatiguing. I'm sure you'll be pleased.
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Post by routlaw on Nov 21, 2019 17:46:45 GMT -5
Thanks for those comments and observations, this is very encouraging. I find it interesting if not downright laughable that so many audiophiles and videophiles speak of these products negatively and in some cases outrageously so to the point of being outright lies at times. Funny hobby I guess. Thanks
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Post by AudioHTIT on Nov 21, 2019 17:47:55 GMT -5
I agree with your 1 - 3 in that order, I very much appreciate the weight difference between my previous XPA-7G2 and current G3. 2 & 3 go hand in hand, 4 will be a tall order but I agree with your thinking on a draw as well. I would be skeptical on improvement with the XSP, but as you say a good backup. Can’t disagree with any of your thoughts.
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Post by routlaw on Nov 21, 2019 18:33:43 GMT -5
This was one of the most compelling things about the PS Audio Stellar M700's, 13 lbs a piece, extremely energy efficient and very cool to the touch. Cool looking gear too.
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Post by AudioHTIT on Nov 21, 2019 19:48:48 GMT -5
This was one of the most compelling things about the PS Audio Stellar M700's, 13 lbs a piece, extremely energy efficient and very cool to the touch. Cool looking gear too. I’m having the same problem laying off the Wyred4Sound M1000 now on sale, 1000W Class D, also 13 lbs. But bad timing for me, they’d just sit until spring. PS Audio does look very sleek and has a good rep. |
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Post by garbulky on Nov 21, 2019 20:07:39 GMT -5
I have not had the chance to hear the DR-1 amps. Looking forward to hearing your impressions!!
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Post by audiobill on Nov 21, 2019 20:43:34 GMT -5
All this talk of light weight....I somehow get great satisfaction from my 85 lb (each) monoblocks.......
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Post by routlaw on Nov 21, 2019 21:16:37 GMT -5
All this talk of light weight....I somehow get great satisfaction form my 85 lb (each) monoblocks....... Oh to be young gnarly and buffed out.   |
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Post by audiobill on Nov 21, 2019 21:32:53 GMT -5
Come to think of it, those are good descriptions of my (younger) wife, who readily and willingly moves them at my whim....
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Post by AudioHTIT on Nov 21, 2019 21:34:29 GMT -5
All this talk of light weight....I somehow get great satisfaction from my 85 lb (each) monoblocks....... Mine are right there with you (80+), I don't find the weight satisfying, but the sound is hard to beat. |
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novisnick
EmoPhile
CEO Secret Monoblock Society
Posts: 27,222 
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Post by novisnick on Nov 22, 2019 0:36:56 GMT -5
All this talk of light weight....I somehow get great satisfaction from my 85 lb (each) monoblocks....... My 100 pounders are massive and an objet d’art! I’ve only moved them once, to replace my old stands to VTI glass top stands. Sound is so sweet! |
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Post by mauriceminor on Nov 22, 2019 8:42:53 GMT -5
Truisms
Heavy Car = Holds The Road
Weighty Amp = Great Sound
Large Watch =
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Post by 405x5 on Nov 22, 2019 9:24:36 GMT -5
As the title might suggest I just couldn't stand not knowing any longer and ordered a pair of the DR-1 Mono Blocs, even though I already own the XPA-1 Gen 2 mono blocs. The following is what I hope to gain from this potential transition. 1. Lighter weight black boxes, by a substantial margin. 2. Cooler operation: the XPA-1 Gen 2 generates a lot of heat when in Class A mode which is how I use them for music, though not for HT. 3. Perhaps more energy efficient, only time will tell for this. 4. Enhanced performance over my existing amps due to the regulated power supplies and Class H topology. Item #4 will be a tall order granted, but if its a draw or even a subjective change for mostly good I'll be a happy camper. While I was at it I also ordered an XSP-1 pre amp and few accessories (CMX-2 & 6) which will allow more analog inputs including two balanced. It remains to be seen if there will be a performance boost over the XMC-1 or 2 which I am skeptical of given the sound quality of the XMC-1 in reference stereo mode. However it will be welcome component once my XMC-1 ships out for the trade, when ever that might be, tick-tock, tick-tock . Apparently it takes a couple of weeks to build these things so it will be some time before I can report on how they compare, should anyone else be as curious as me. Suffice it to say lots of hand wrenching over this decision but had also considered the PS Audio Stellar M700 mono blocs that receive unanimous praise. I’m sure you will be pleased 😀 Ya know, I’ve been so happy with Emotiva’s XMC1, that I’ve kept an open mind to their lineup of amps., but I’ve got a problem. After 18 years, I’ve been unable to “kill” my Signature Sunfire. Thinking of the inevitable, I took a ride over to a high end electronics repair shop not far from my place, to see if I might trust them for service, should the “bad thing” happen. I have to say, that was well over 10 years ago, and Still, I’m “stuck” with a perfectly operating piece of hardware. It’s just sitting (at only 43 pounds) on the bottom of my rack, effortlessly pumping out 405 watts @8ohms rms. to each of 5 channels. Overkill....yes for 2 of those 5, but the simplicity of all the amplification under one “roof” is more than an equitable trade. Bill |
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Post by jdmusante on Nov 22, 2019 9:41:28 GMT -5
I too am curious to hear your thoughts on the DR-1s. There isn't a ton in the way of reviews out there. I absolutely see the benefits in your items 1-3. As long as they sound great, or as good as your XPA-1 Gen 2 amps, it would be a win for sure.
I'm going in the opposite direction of you though. I ordered a pair of XPA-1 Gen. 2s last night. The weight isn't a big deal to me. Outside of set up, they will only move occasionally. Interested to see how much heat they generate. My curiosity is to see how much of a difference there is between the monoblocks and the stereo amp.
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Post by mauriceminor on Nov 22, 2019 9:59:48 GMT -5
I too am curious to hear your thoughts on the DR-1s. There isn't a ton in the way of reviews out there. I absolutely see the benefits in your items 1-3. As long as they sound great, or as good as your XPA-1 Gen 2 amps, it would be a win for sure. I'm going in the opposite direction of you though. I ordered a pair of XPA-1 Gen. 2s last night. The weight isn't a big deal to me. Outside of set up, they will only move occasionally. Interested to see how much heat they generate. My curiosity is to see how much of a difference there is between the monoblocks and the stereo amp.
XPA-1 Gen 1's for the last 7 years or so
Prior to that UPA-1's and bridged NAD 2155's
The XPA's made quite a difference with the power hungry speakers
Warm to the touch but nothing of concern
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Post by routlaw on Nov 22, 2019 10:44:27 GMT -5
I too am curious to hear your thoughts on the DR-1s. There isn't a ton in the way of reviews out there. I absolutely see the benefits in your items 1-3. As long as they sound great, or as good as your XPA-1 Gen 2 amps, it would be a win for sure. I'm going in the opposite direction of you though. I ordered a pair of XPA-1 Gen. 2s last night. The weight isn't a big deal to me. Outside of set up, they will only move occasionally. Interested to see how much heat they generate. My curiosity is to see how much of a difference there is between the monoblocks and the stereo amp. You must have found a pair used. Congratulations! I’m sure you will like them. I agree there wasn’t much review info on the DR amps, not enough one could really sink there teeth into. Less than a dozen consumer reviews on the Emotiva website but that’s it, yet still helpful. To answer your question, if the Class A switch is off they will be fairly warm at idle, but with switch on they are downright hot. You couldn’t keep your hands on them but for a quick touch. Some people do not hear the difference with the switch on, but to me it’s very noticeable in my system. There will I’ll certainly be a measurable difference, but whether or not you can hear the difference between monos and stereo amps in your system will be up to you. It’s a very immersive experience in my setup. Don’t think I would ever go back to a stereo amp. |
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Post by rbk123 on Nov 22, 2019 10:59:42 GMT -5
After 18 years, I’ve been unable to “kill” my Signature Sunfire. And that perfectly functioning 18 year old amp uses an SMPS. Just more proof that SMPS's aren't bad, it's how they're implemented that matters. |
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Post by davidl81 on Nov 22, 2019 11:15:32 GMT -5
I too am curious to hear your thoughts on the DR-1s. There isn't a ton in the way of reviews out there. I absolutely see the benefits in your items 1-3. As long as they sound great, or as good as your XPA-1 Gen 2 amps, it would be a win for sure. I'm going in the opposite direction of you though. I ordered a pair of XPA-1 Gen. 2s last night. The weight isn't a big deal to me. Outside of set up, they will only move occasionally. Interested to see how much heat they generate. My curiosity is to see how much of a difference there is between the monoblocks and the stereo amp. You must have found a pair used. Congratulations! I’m sure you will like them. I agree there wasn’t much review info on the DR amps, not enough one could really sink there teeth into. Less than a dozen consumer reviews on the Emotiva website but that’s it, yet still helpful. To answer your question, if the Class A switch is off they will be fairly warm at idle, but with switch on they are downright hot. You couldn’t keep your hands on them but for a quick touch. Some people do not hear the difference with the switch on, but to me it’s very noticeable in my system. There will I’ll certainly be a measurable difference, but whether or not you can hear the difference between monos and stereo amps in your system will be up to you. It’s a very immersive experience in my setup. Don’t think I would ever go back to a stereo amp. I have a DR-2 (not a DR-1, but pretty damn close). I went from a XPA-2 G2 to the DR-2. At first I did not really notice a difference in the sound. But now that I have a RMC-1 I could not be any happier with my DR-2. It runs super cool, and it down right slams my Mirage OMD-28's. Would the XPA-2 done the same on the RMC-1, that's hard to say. But I do know that I am beyond pleased with my DR-2 now. |
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Post by routlaw on Nov 22, 2019 11:27:03 GMT -5
After 18 years, I’ve been unable to “kill” my Signature Sunfire. And that perfectly functioning 18 year old amp uses an SMPS. Just more proof that SMPS's aren't bad, it's how they're implemented that matters. Absolutely agree with this assessment. There’s quite a few other components rated in high regard using SMPS as well. |
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. Apparently it takes a couple of weeks to build these things so it will be some time before I can report on how they compare, should anyone else be as curious as me.
