Pass labs - oh the choices

[Formerly YB-2]

While it is quite small in power 25/50wpc Class A @8/4ohm, the XA25 might provide all you need. My friends 20.7s sing so sweetly with only 25wpc of Luxman tube power. The XA25/INT-25 have pretty much the same power section that uses only one (1) large output device per channel. If you are fortunate enough to have a local dealer (somewhat rare these days) perhaps you can bring home an amp or two to audition in your system.

[jpspock]

I had a 100.5and moved to a 160.5. I listened to all xa and x.5 series. So if you have the possibility to get a160.5, go for it. Much better in high frequencies, and bass are much more articulate. Really, sonically’they sound différent except for the beautiful and rich medium…

[timm]

Originally Posted by jpspock

I had a 100.5and moved to a 160.5. I listened to all xa and x.5 series. So if you have the possibility to get a160.5, go for it. Much better in high frequencies, and bass are much more articulate. Really, sonically’they sound différent except for the beautiful and rich medium…

Interesting. So mids sound similar… but bass is more articulate with better highs. Would you say the 160.5 has more jump/dynamics? How many watts at idle do these pull per amp? I have a psaudio P10 regen. I think it puts out 1000 watts ?? I’d have to check. Would you run from the wall or power regenerator? I’m not sure of cost diff between amps. But the 160.5 sure is sexy.

Oh and what speakers did you have hooked to them jpspock? Thanks Tim

Edit: it looks like the p10 is 1200 continuous w peaks of 1500VA

[SteveJ]

I use an XP20 and X250.5 with my Tympani IVa's.

The power supply in Pass Labs amps are designed to provide abundant current into 4 ohms and have the heat sinks to sustain it.

500 watts into 4 ohms. I have found that to be sufficient.

The room is 17' W X 24' L X 13' to 19' H and the back wall is very open.

[Sceptic]

Pass recommends their X.8 series for Magnepans unless you
move up to at least the XA160.8.

[Bigdenis]

I don't know the Magnepans, but I have owned X250, X250.5, X600.5, XA200.5 and XA 200.8.
The XA200.8 have the velvety, midrange sound of the .5 while having the energy of the X series.
I can easily imagine the 160.8
being in the same vein.
Avoid the XA100.5 which I personally find very " flabby ".

[timm]

Thanks guys. Very difficult to find some of these amps used or new for that matter. Scratching my head even more with your comments.

[JoeN]

Pass Lbs are well made. The XA series will give you better sound. However, Pass Class A runs 'Hot" whereas Pass X260.8s and down run only "Warm" to the touch. So depending on where you live this is something to consider. I live in Florida and own the 260s. Love them. Thinking of moving to the X600s. I'd love the sound of the XAs but the heat would run me out of the house most of time...

Originally Posted by timm

Thanks guys. Very difficult to find some of these amps used or new for that matter. Scratching my head even more with your comments.

[timm]

Thanks JoeN. I have two places. One where heat would be welcome - one where it wouldn’t. . Michigan / Florida. Where are you in Florida. I’m in Naples.

[JoeN]

Hi,

I just moved from Naples app 5 months ago. I’m up in Destin /Santa Rosa Beach area now.

Audio1 who posts here at times lives in Naples. Nice system!!!

I’m looking at several new amps at present. I have the 260.8s and they sound great. Warm not hot. I’m thinking of the 600.8s to go with my new Magico M3s that are coming. But even they may run hot. However, I’m also considering EMM Labs - excellent A/B amps - they give home editions…. The rest of my gear is EMM DAC, Pre Transport. And Puma Cat just suggested Constellation. It looks promising as well.

Originally Posted by timm

Thanks JoeN. I have two places. One where heat would be welcome - one where it wouldn’t. . Michigan / Florida. Where are you in Florida. I’m in Naples.