Available power. Ease of use. Numerous usefull functions which make it very versatile. Overall sound qualities. Look.

Price, perhaps.

This is the upcomming version of the earlier AM 1000 Série C I also reviewed on audioreview.com. I bought a pair of those, because they have a better look for an in livingroom use and because I was told this version is more reliable.

Apart from better look and superior built-quality, the Polaris version adds even more usefull functions over the Série C, if possible! An integrated active low or high pass filter (50 Hz-200 Hz adjustable) along with a phase inverter allow this amplifier to be used in active bi-amp or a triphonic system by their own without requiring an external filter. For that matter, an XLR output is also provided. All the pots have been repositionned on the front plate, so they are easier to use compare to those of the previous modell. A switch permit us to listen to the amp with or without the active parametric equalizer. There is also a circuit which automatically shut the amp on and off when a line level signal is or is not present at the input. This system works great.

If I have to compare the AM 1000 Série C and the Polaris, I would say the latter is a bit more soft and produces less hiss when one have to come close to the driver. The parametric equalizer on the two versions are in fact the same, so what I have said about the Série C does also apply to the Polaris. The on/off function of the equalizer is very usefull to verify that the added active circuitry when the equalizer is in use do not impact the sound quality at all, contrary to what said a popular belief extensively heard among audiophiles about equalizer controls.

I should also added that whatever the pots or switch is activated, there is no "scrathes", nor other parasistic transient noises that come out of the amp.

Similar Products Used:

Cabasse AM 1000 Série C