Κώστας Φ.
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- Μηνύματα
- 8.978
- Reaction score
- 895
"The Signature MPA 5150 five-channel reference power amplifier ($3,500) is one of three amplifiers in the Monster Power amplifier lineup. The MPA 5150 is a five-channel amplifier rated at 150 watts per channel into eight ohms and 250 watts per channel into four ohms. The MPA 5150 chassis is anything but your ordinary black box amplifier. The styling is consistent with Monster’s line of power conditioners. The 75-pound, 17-inch-wide by 20.25-inch-deep and seven-inch-high chassis, with the exception of the front panel, is made of a heavy gauge black metal. Much of the body is perforated to increase cooling.
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The amplifier was designed by Richard Marsh, a name well known in audiophile circles in connection with power amplifier design. Twin transformers and power supplies insure that the amplifier can exceed its power specifications, even with all channels driven. Peak power output is over 500 watts per channel into four ohms and the amplifier is stable below two ohms. The signal to noise ratio is greater than 113dB A weighted, THD <.01 percent at 1kHz, <.02 percent at 20kHz at rated power into eight ohms. Speaking with Mr. Marsh about the amplifier, it became clear that the MPA-5150 is a high-current design and that the specifications are extremely conservative. There is much more power on tap than 150 watts per channel while keeping within the above performance specifications.
Mr. Marsh and I discussed the amplifier’s design and he explained the Monster Mirrored Amplifier Technology (MMAT), a current feedback circuit topology that is said to lower distortion and increase clarity by mirroring the input signal at the output stage through fully complimentary differential circuits. A balanced, complimentary push-pull stage is reported to be ultra-wide bandwidth to take full advantage of today’s 192kHz recordings. Mr. Marsh feels that it is important for amplifiers to be able to reproduce these higher frequencies for superior soundstaging. High-current MOSFET output transistors permit quick, high-current transfer for increased dynamic capabilities.
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Conclusion
Monster Cable’s MPA-5150 is a solid performer in the world of multi-channel amplifiers, especially at its price of $3,500. If you need any of the special features that the MPA-5150 offers, the decision to purchase it is quite easy. If you are simply looking for a good, solid, quality amplifier for your neutral or slightly recessed five-channel system, the MPA-5150 deserves a listen. Do not let the relatively low power rating scare you away; it performs like a more powerful amplifier, especially when it comes to controlling speakers. If your speakers have a more relaxed or polite top end (as many currently do), the MPA-5150’s forward treble should not be noticeable.
All in all, Monster Cable’s first five-channel amplifier benefits greatly from Richard Marsh’s talents. While not perfect, this amp is a contender that should be taken seriously."
Full Review: avrev.com
