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 1 response by gdnrbob

If you are willing to buy used, then I would suggest and Atmasphere MP-3 and Ayre MX-R monoblocks (non Twenty).
I used them on my Treo's to great acclaim.-And, the XLR inputs are nice and tight.
Unfortunately, they are hard to find used.-but, worth the wait.
Bob