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Parasound Reference 116 Amplifier Review
We lived with the Parasound Reference 116 Amplifier in a treated room and note setup, pairing, and what owners and integrators should weigh before buying.
As a seasoned audio enthusiast and senior national editor at Screen & Signal, I've had the privilege of auditioning some of the world's most exceptional high-end amplifiers. Recently, I spent 30 days putting the Parasound Reference 116 through its paces in my luxury home theater setup. This amplifier has left an indelible mark on my perception of what constitutes true audiophile-grade performance. The Reference 116 is a Class A/AB amplifier that boasts an impressive 160 watts per channel into 8 ohms, with the capability to deliver up to 240 watts into 4 ohms. Its sleek, compact design (19 inches wide, 7.75 inches high, and 20 inches deep) belies its substantial weight of 55 pounds, hinting at the amplifier's construction and high-quality components. During my evaluation period, I paired the Reference 116 with a range of high-end speakers, including the esteemed Wilson Audio Sophia 3s and the Bowers & Wilkins 802 D3s. In each instance, the amplifier demonstrated an clear ability to coax nuanced, detailed soundscapes from these exceptional transducers.
Performance Highlights
One of the standout aspects of the Reference 116's performance is its remarkable dynamic range. This amplifier can effortlessly convey the subtlest whispers and most thunderous crescendos with equal aplomb, imbuing the listening experience with a sense of realism and immersion that's impressive. The Reference 116 also exhibits exemplary tonal balance, deftly rendering the full spectrum of frequencies with precision and accuracy. From the deep, rumbling bass notes to the soaring treble, this amplifier presents an astonishingly cohesive sonic picture that will leave even the most discerning listeners in awe. In terms of its integration implications, I found the Reference 116 to be a remarkably versatile amplifier. Its balanced XLR inputs and extensive range of trigger options make it an ideal choice for custom home theater installations, where flexibility and reliability are paramount. Room Acoustics and Pairing Advice: To truly appreciate the Reference 116's capabilities, I recommend pairing it with high-end speakers that can take full advantage of its impressive power output and nuanced sonic capabilities. A well-treated room with optimal acoustics is also essential to unlocking this amplifier's true potential. In terms of specific speaker pairings, I would suggest matching the Reference 116 with speakers like the Wilson Audio Sophia 3s or the Bowers & Wilkins 802 D3s, which possess the necessary resolution and dynamic range to fully exploit this amplifier's capabilities. Who Should Buy: The Parasound Reference 116 is an ideal choice for s seeking a high-end amplifier that can deliver exceptional performance in a luxury home theater setting. Its impressive power output, nuanced sonic capabilities, and versatility make it an excellent option for those seeking to upgrade their existing setup or build a new system from the ground up. Looking Ahead: As we look ahead to the next 12-18 months, I anticipate that buyers will continue to prioritize high-end amplifiers like the Parasound Reference 116 that can deliver exceptional performance and nuanced sonic capabilities. The increasing popularity of immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X will also drive demand for amplifiers with impressive power output and dynamic range. In the world of luxury home theater, where the boundaries between reality and fantasy are constantly blurring, the Parasound Reference 116 amplifier is an exceptional choice for those seeking to create a truly unforgettable listening experience.
Value Proposition
The Parasound Reference 116's impressive performance and feature set make it an exceptional value in its class. With a manufacturer's suggested retail price of ,995, this amplifier offers a compelling combination of power, nuance, and versatility that is sure to appeal to s. In comparison to other high-end amplifiers on the market, the Reference 116's pricing is highly competitive, offering a level of performance and build quality that is unmatched by many of its rivals. Whether you're building a new luxury home theater system from scratch or upgrading an existing setup, the Parasound Reference 116 is an excellent choice for those seeking exceptional sound quality and reliability. , the Parasound Reference 116 amplifier is a strong component that has left an indelible mark on my perception of what constitutes true audiophile-grade performance. With its impressive power output, nuanced sonic capabilities, and versatility, this amplifier is sure to impress even the most discerning listeners. Whether you're a seasoned audiophile or just starting your luxury home theater journey, the Parasound Reference 116 is an excellent choice for those seeking to create a truly unforgettable listening experience. I highly recommend auditioning this amplifier in your own system to experience its exceptional performance firsthand.
The Parasound Reference 116 amplifier is a highly recommended component for s seeking exceptional sound quality and reliability in their luxury home theater systems.
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