Any Pass X250.8 owners out here?

[RichW]

I am getting ready to make some upgrades to the system. I currently running a DAC into a BAT51SE, then a Pass Labs XA30.8, then finally into Decware DM947 speakers (don't worry if you've never heard of them; not the last word in speakers, but have been doing a solid job for about 5 years now.)

I am contemplating moving up the Pass Labs amplifier line, and the X250.8 looks attractive. I would like to hear more bass authority and definition, but I don't really want to sacrifice the mids and highs of the 30.8.

I would love to hear some of your impressions of the X250.8, especially if you are able to make some direct comparisons to the XA30.8. I've spoken with both Mark at Reno Hifi, and Kent English of Pass Labs; both are wonderful and informative people. What I am interested in now is the opinions and experiences of end users of either of these amps.

Thanks!

[boilerkj]

Looks like the DM947 is an active/passive combo. If you're only powering the bookshelf portion (extremely efficient) with the XA30.8, I'm not sure you stand much to gain moving to the X250.8.

If the entire set up is passive, then you might benefit from the extra power. Kent @ Pass is excellent and will guide you well.

[RichW]

@boilerkj the DM947 is a bookshelf with a stand that acts like a bass horn. It is relatively efficient, and definitely not active.

Just looking for some users with experience with both these amps.

[Mikado463]

Originally Posted by RichW

Just looking for some users with experience with both these amps.

my only experience was short lived with the X250.8, great 'amp' but in the end I preferred it's mono block cousin(s), the X260.8 mono blocks. If you're used to the Class A bias of the XA amps remember, the X260.8's have more initial bias into Class A that any of the other X series amps, save the '650'.

[aardvarkbark]

I haven't heard either, but I have the INT-250. You'll have to have Kent explain how or whether one may extrapolate from INT-250 feedback to that for X250.8. I listen to B&W 803 D2s. I hear very solid, well defined bass, and am not aware of any missing mid or high frequencies. Mostly classical and acoustic jazz. I sense a fairly authentic concert hall sound.

I didn't buy from Mark, but I understand he has a fairly reasonable 'try it before you buy it' program.

I must add that for me, there is comfort in knowing that a company stands behind their products and are there to respond. Kent English provides just such comfort, as you must know.

[parsifalcor]

I JUST pulled the trigger on an X250.8 and am absolutely floored by the level of performance. You won't regret it!

[JoeN]

New here. I haven’t heard the Pass X250.8, but am interested in how they sound with Magico A3s. Going in app. a week to listen to some... . I can post my impressions when I return.

[Masterlu]

JoeN... Welcome to AA!

[JoeN]

Thanks Masterlu. Appreciate the welcome.

[daveneumann]

I love my X260.8 amps. They are a nice step up from the X250.8 stereo amp. As a long time tube amp owner, I don't feel like I'm missing anything. They are a great match for my Strads.

Dave