Measurements and conclusion
Contents
We measured the Advance Paris A12 Apex on our Prism dScope III. We also did a noise measurement on the mains side with the Tekbox LISN and Picoscope 5000-series scope and spectrum analyzer.
Measurements Advance Paris A12 Apex
Advance Paris has clearly struck a balance between control and “schwung”. The negative feedback is evident but not excessive. We see two spikes reflected – 2nd and 3rd harmonic – in the noise measurement with 1 watt over 8 ohms: 2 and 3 kHz. Both around -80dB. Grass is minimal and a noise floor of -110dBFS is neat in this price range.
The frequency response is pretty straight. We actually see a straight line up to 90 KHz. Phase is also under control. Something happens below 10 Hz: perhaps the amplifier is filtering there.
The dac linearity is in line with the noise floor of the amplifier: below -110 dBFS nothing happens, but that is actually positive: the dac is not the weak link in the amplifier.
Our power measurement is very close to Advance’s specifications. Now, it is important to note that the difference between single ended and balanced is quite large. The Advance measures better through the balanced connections. That makes sense, too, given the technology. However, that this is so large and so obvious via the power measurement is indeed striking.
I used to think one MUST have a separate DAC and that’s really not the case. I sold my Holo Audio because whatever is in my M33 does it better. I also used to own the regular A12 and it’s a great gentle giant of an amp with a not very good DAC. This package could be a very nice option, a Sabre DAC makes a lot of sense on an otherwise smooth amp. Not sure how I feel about losing the blue VUs but I guess the black knobs and white lights make it look cleaner and more mature.