[digihead]

Looking at getting an RA-1 for my RS-1s. Is there a difference in sound quality between the 9v version and the DC power cord version?

 

[Zanth]

I'm not entirely sure. I have read some reports stating that there is no audible difference. Conceivably the battery operated one should be better, no AC line noise to contend with. Depending on the intended use...I would go with some Plainview 9V's if you were looking at the DC version.

 

[joelongwood]

Here's a previous thread dealing with the same issue:
http://www4.head-fi.org/forums/showt...hlight=RA-1+DC

 

[digihead]

Thanks. Based on this info and the fact that the 9v version is less expensive, looks like I'll get the 9v version and some plainviews.

 

[bhd812]

sure you want that amp?

had one and with rs-1 it isnt what its cracked up to be...but if you want it then go for it

 

[skitlets]

Hate to revive an old thread, but anyone have any new experiences with the AC vs DC debate? I've read in even older threads that the AC version has a louder output. That's not good for my sensitive ears! Can someone confirm?

 

[crazyfrenchman27]

Quote:

Originally Posted by bhd812 sure you want that amp? had one and with rs-1 it isnt what its cracked up to be...but if you want it then go for it

See! See?! I'm not crazy!

Maybe this RA-1 synergy stuff is not all that it's cracked up to be, eh?

I would go for any amp other than the RA-1 in that price range.

-Matt

 

[crazyfrenchman27]

Quote:

Originally Posted by skitlets Hate to revive an old thread, but anyone have any new experiences with the AC vs DC debate? I've read in even older threads that the AC version has a louder output. That's not good for my sensitive ears! Can someone confirm?

AC is a very noisy amp...have not heard battery one.

-Matt

 

[Progfan]

Quote:

Originally Posted by skitlets Hate to revive an old thread, but anyone have any new experiences with the AC vs DC debate? I've read in even older threads that the AC version has a louder output. That's not good for my sensitive ears! Can someone confirm?

I've only had experience with the DC version (that's the battery-powered one, right?). But if the AC is louder, it definitely won't be good for someone with sensitive ears--with Grado 225s I can barely get beyond the 7:30 position, and even that can be too loud for some recent, loudly mastered CDs. Staying below 7 doesn't work, because then the channels don't track properly.

I don't know how sensitive my ears are--I do think I generally listen at lower volumes (approximately the level of a normal conversation) than many here seem to. YMMV.

Cheers,
Mark

 

[skitlets]

Well, I emailed Grado directly if the AC (wall-powered) version was any louder. They stated the two versions are identical in gain and volume. Still, does anyone else have noise (hisses/hums) problems with the AC version, or is it as quiet as the DC?