JC1+ (Single Monoblock) Black

The first update from Parasound on the 20-year-old JC 1s, the Plus is Richard Schram and John Curl's effort to make a worthy successor that will stand the test of time. Powerful, clear and quite a lot of value when you compare it to more esoteric monsters, the JC 1+ is very neutral. "There was no major sense of lack of color or excitement, they simply tell a speaker to move like the music moves," we observed.

I have yet to hear a pair of solid-state amplifiers that offer anywhere near this much sonic excellence and sheer power for anywhere near the price of these amplifiers. If someone whispered in my ear, "you're listening to a six-figure pair of amplifiers," I would believe them. The JC 1+ monos are that good, that refined, that musical.

Even the harmonics and the hall ambiance have a vivid sensation and benefit from the JC 1+ lack of background noise. To let the sound and music in the signal appear more detailed and exquisite, picturing details of this solo violin recording are richer, and the interpretation is like constructing a more three-dimensional Zen garden and more encompassing.

With JC 1+ amplifiers, the feeling of listening to a Steinway D in a real space was very satisfying. High frequencies were smooth and clean, more like what I experience from a good tube amplifier. Dynamics were extraordinary. Low-frequency power and delicacy! The improvement in its sound quality and the recent explosion of the prices of high-end, high-power amplifiers keep the JC 1+ competitive. This is a superb-sounding amplifier that will get the best from every loudspeaker with which it is partnered. Well done, Mr. Curl.

Parasound has long been admired for their preamplifiers and power amplifiers. The JC 1+ power amplifier is truly an achievement to the highest degree. The sound is exemplary and reflects its amazing design, while parts quality is a statement on its own. Proof of Performance for the Parasound has been verified. They are worth the price.