2. amps-preamps
  3. 164110-36966

Holographic, 3D Solid State Amp under $6k

Greetings! I’m looking for a $4-6k tube preamp + ~$6k solid state Amp combination - an Amp with Preferably a high impedance inputs, and XLR inputs. I want to combine the holographic, 3D imaging and wide soundstage of a tube preamp to the dynamics, control, and extension of a solid state amp. I’d like to see Class A for the first 10-15W. I’m looking for something that compares sonically with Pass, but I can’t go with Pass again.

I had a demo Pass X250.8 and XP-22 for 1 wk. Sounded beautiful, but the low gain of the XP-22 was too low on several sources to power the X250.8. The Volume had to be turned up to 80/99 for decent levels. Unfortunately, there were also QC issues on the Pass - the hum on the XP-22 was intolerable, and the XLR connectors wobbled on the X250.8. I was told that’s how the XLR plugs are on Pass. It didn’t inspire confidence, so I had to send it back with a restocking fee. So No Pass!
88man

Showing 2 responses by dep14

dep14
333 posts
 
I’m calling bullcrap on the Pass issues. Or, that dealer blows, or if that gear was shipped... it was dropped from a decent height.

People may not like Pass gear, and that is up to their ears. But Pass is nothing but responsive and top notch on QC and support.

I’ve owned lots of Pass gear new and used. Never an issue, and Pass is incredibly responsive to questions. IF that unit had issues, at a minimum that dealer would/should not have charged restocked. I’m sure Pass would agree.

250.8/XP22 is spectacular.

Yes, depending on your speaker efficiency you do tend to have to turn pass gear up a bit into the 70/80 range.






dep14
333 posts
 
@jmarshak 

Agree, if I didn't own Pass.  BAT would be high on my list.  

My biggest problem with the OP and the Pass comments are that I just don't see any reputable dealer saying "that's just how the XLR plugs are on Pass".

Just using any basic logic, at the prices Pass goes for, they wouldn't sell too many units with wobbly XLR plugs and hum's from the pre-amp.

But, yes BAT - good stuff from all my Demo's, and for a short while I had a VK-200 Solid State amp in my system.  Great amp.
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