Parasound NewClassic 2250 v.2: Entry-level Hi-End power amplifier

Parasound NewClassic 2250 v.2 is a universal 2-channel entry-level Hi-End power amplifier that is capable of delivering quite a lot of power and easily copes with the most capricious speaker systems, reproducing stunning sound and giving listeners...

Parasound NewClassic 2250 v.2
Parasound NewClassic 2250 v.2

Parasound NewClassic 2250 v.2 is a universal 2-channel entry-level Hi-End power amplifier that is capable of delivering quite a lot of power and easily copes with the most capricious speaker systems, reproducing stunning sound and giving listeners indescribable pleasure.

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The Parasound Model 2250 v.2 two-channel power amplifier meets THX Ultra2 requirements, as evidenced by the logo on the front panel. The device was conceived as a universal “workhorse” for both stereo and home cinema. It has plenty of power – 2 x 275 W at 8 Ohms, 2 x 400 W at 4 or 2 Ohms. Peak output current can reach 2 x 45 Amps. For stable operation with low-impedance (2 – 3 Ohms) acoustics, just click the switch on the rear panel. A bridge mode is also provided, in which the device is a monoblock with an output power of 750 W.

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You can connect two pairs of speaker systems (A and B) to the Parasound NewClassic 2250 v.2 power amplifier and switch them using buttons on the front panel. If necessary, these buttons are blocked. The circuit has sensitivity controls and an infra-low-pass filter with a threshold of 20 and 40 Hz. The user service provides for activation by a 12-volt trigger or the appearance of a signal at the input, status indication and overheating alarm.

Little is known about the circuitry; it is only reported that the path is entirely assembled using discrete elements. I will assume that the Parasound NewClassic 2250 v.2 implements the classic ideology of John Curl – balanced circuits with MOSFET drivers and output stages based on powerful bipolar transistors, several in each arm. Both the preamplifier and the power end can be mounted in a standard 19-inch rack, occupying 2U and 3U in height, respectively.

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If you’ve ever heard a “drum kit” live, choosing the right amp will be easy. A sharp front of the sound wave, giving the feeling of a whip blow, but not dry, but with powerful filling – this is a sure sign of competent control of the diffusers. Parasound NewClassic 2250 v.2 conveys just such an attack, thanks to which the illusion of naturalness is almost complete. The speed of the bass, its structure and the ability to effortlessly reproduce powerful dynamic peaks are a consequence of the energy potential inherent in the amplifier. And at the same time – a light touch of strings, after-sounds, rustles, the breath of the concert hall. Not every THX amplifier can show such attention to the nuances that create the atmosphere.

Characteristics of Parasound NewClassic 2250 v.2

Nominal output power with both channels operating and a load resistance of 8/4/2 Ohms: 2 x 275 / 2 x 400 / 2 x 400 W
Output power in bridge mode (mono): 750 W
Peak current in load: 2 x 45 A
Amplified frequency range: (+0/-3 dB, 1 W) 20 Hz – 50 kHz
Harmonic distortion level at rated power: 0.2%
Intermodulation distortion level: 0.05%
Signal-to-noise ratio: 114 dB IHFA
Cross-channel attenuation 1/10/20 kHz: 85/73/67 dB
Damping factor: >150 (20 Hz)
Input impedance: 33 kΩ
Sensitivity: 1 V at 28.3 V output
Power consumption at maximum output power: 1000 VA
Dimensions: 437 x 153 x 470 mm
Weight: 19.5 kg

Francis Adamiak
Author: Francis Adamiak

Francis Adamiak is a passionate audiophile and expert in high-fidelity audio equipment, with a focus on amplifiers and speakers. Drawing on years of experience and a deep love for sound quality, he shares in-depth reviews and insights on the latest audio technology.