After owning this amp for 1.5 years, and upgrading every other component in my system, I felt it was time to write a review of this tremendous amplifier. This amplifier is outstanding. It faithfully amplifies the signal provided, regardless of the demands of the speaker. I have used a/d/s CM-7s, JM Lab ELectra 905s and now Merlin TSM-Ms, and each of them have sounded their best when connected to this amplifier. As I got into SACD, I started on a quest to upgrade my system, one component at at time, so that I could hear the best music possible, but never considered upgrading the Sunfire Cinema Grand Signature Five. This amp is so good, that one day I decided to break out some of me favorite late 60s early 70s SACDs and crank up the volume. My Reference Line Preeminece 1B preamp was almost full blast throughout the listening session of 2 hours, and the amp was just cruising along. I have been into this hobby for 24 years, and I know that a passive preamp is much easier on the amp than an active preamp when cranked up, but the Sunfire was being asked to play at 90% of full volume, and it was some of the best sounding music I have ever heard-no clipping whatsoever. I now have three components that I will not be changing for a VERY long time: Reference Line Preeminence 1B preamp, Sunfire amp, and Merlin TSM-M speakers. If you want to satisfy your ears and your wallet, pick up a used Sunfire 400 and enjoy the music!
Strengths: Runs cool, Not very heavy. Easy on your pocket book.
Weaknesses: Are you kidding?
Would you like to Comment? Join AudioReview for a free account, or Login if you are already a member.
Summary: This is the best 5 channel amplifier I have ever listened to. Excellent sound for 5.1 home theater movies, 6 channel SACD and stereo ilstening. At 400 watts per channel this baby really rocks the house. If you are in need of a great all around amplifier for your home theater this is the one.
Strengths: Power, runs cool and beautiful to look at.
Weaknesses: I can't think of any.
Similar Products Used: Aragon, Carver, Parasound Halo line, Outlaw Audio.
Would you like to Comment? Join AudioReview for a free account, or Login if you are already a member.
Summary: This review is for the 2003 Cinema Seven. After 20 years I finally gave up on my once wonderful sounding Quad 405-2's (I had three of them and their age was starting to show). Listened to a number of different amps (Lexicon, Krell, Theta, Parasound) trying to find a top notch amp for both music and HT. Finally decided on the Sunfire just because I liked the way it sounded (with the Theater Grand Processor III). Its that simple. Worth a test drive.
Strengths: Sounds great. Balanced inputs. Bi-wiring capability for front speakers. Has tremendous power for price-but I haven't really tested that aspect, yet.
Weaknesses: None noted so far.
Similar Products Used: My beloved Quad 405-2s.
Would you like to Comment? Join AudioReview for a free account, or Login if you are already a member.
Summary: This amp is a dream to listen to. Accurate and powerful is how I would describe this amp. It runs cool except when you drive it to ear bleeding levels for 20 minutes or more then it gets warm. It never gets so warm that you cannot hold your hand on top. As for the humming problem I agree these people must have a groung loop problem. My system has no noise at all with the volume high or low. Please read the review I have posted for the TGIII and the True Sig Sub on this sight.
My system:
Sunfire TGIII Architect's Choice
Sunfire Cinema Grand Signature II Architect's Choice
Sunfire True Subwoofer Signature
Klipsch KLF-30 Front
Klipsch KSP-S6 Rear
Klipsck KLF-C7 Center
Strengths: Power
Clean power
Definition of sound
Runs cool
Weaknesses: Joule meter on the front. I have no idea why it is there. It never moves. You could not see it if fit did. It must be for looks.
Would you like to Comment? Join AudioReview for a free account, or Login if you are already a member.
Summary: The Sunfire Amp a nice mix for HT and music. The sound stage is warm and full. Pair will the right speakers (I own Paradigm Studio line) this is a wonderful, and is price very nicely
Strengths: Powerful, and warm. Nice looking amp also.
Weaknesses: The way the back is laid out is a bit confusing.
Similar Products Used: Anthem MCA-50
Rotel 1095
Would you like to Comment? Join AudioReview for a free account, or Login if you are already a member.
5 of 5
