Does Threshold equal newer amp designs?

Klouie, you are right in most older models of Threshold. The SA/3 and T-400 were decent. I had a T-800 and a S-500 at one time. Where I beg to differ with you is on a pair of Threshold SA/1's modified to balance configuration and other minor mods. I currently own both a pair of Pass X-600s and Threshold SA/1's. The X-600s have more guts and bottom end. But over all the SA/1's are a more finess, sweet sounding amps. Smoother and more control on the top end. And silky almost tube/warm mids. The bass is tight and has extension. I have two systems and swapped amps on each pair of speakers, and each system is worth about +$50K. One day I will sell my Pass X-600s, but I will Never sell my Threshold SA/1's.

Sean, Plsl hit BINGO on the head. You guys deserve a Cubian Cigar. But no smoking in the audio room. When it comes to analog equpiment, like power amps. There is no need to run out for the newest model. It's like a 50 yr. old Swiss watch. Certain ones are classics and fit under the word "vintage". And then there are some not so good ones. Threshold SA/1's, SA/2's and SA/12's are definitely Vintage. I honestly have not heard better sounding amp over all with the SA/1's; and I've had a number of people tell me the same. And of course I played the game and had about 40 different amps the last 20 years. Including the Pass X-600s, and recently had a Classe' Omege. These two amps are very nice . But they lack "finess". Not getting into details with the SA/1's because I can write a book. The SA/1's have a very unique sound for solid state. The SA/1's have passion , character and warm tones. Where today's amps are lacking that passion of the music, intricate of detail and finess. For the people who have to go out and spend +$30K to try to match the performance of those amps mentioned, ....well good luck. We are not dealing with the latest and greatest home computer - bigger hard drives , increased memory , more ram, etc. The design of the SA/1's is close to being a perfect design if there is such an animal. Just ask Nelso Pass himself about the SA/1's.