Pass Labs Int-30a or Naim 282- 250 combo


I have finally decided to move from an all Tube set up to a solid state set up. I am currently using a Thor Pre-amp and Rogue m-150 mono blocks to drive my cremona auditors. Due to both changing tastes and lifestyle I am moving away from tubes.

After auditioning various brands my two favorites in my price range were the Pass Labs Int- 30a using a berkeley alpha dac or I am considering the Naim 282+ 250 with Hi-Cap using the Naim dac. While I had to hear them at two separate dealers, they both sold cremona auditors and had them hooked up with the sub.

I am not sure which direction to go and in some ways these could not be more opposite brands. I am looking for guidance and advice, yet I know that in some ways its got to be emotional and come from some gut instinct.

I am looking for electronics that will accurately play the music that is present without much color. I want to hear what is recorded. Yet at the same time I want to ensure an enjoyable experience.

With the Pass Labs audition I really liked its engaging feeling as well as the soundstage and the presentation. Yet with the Naim I liked how tight the bass control was and how well defined the music was. In some ways I enjoyed the Pass Labs more it was muscial, well controlled, and engaging, yet for some reason I keep on coming back to the Naim, not sure if its because I am supposed to like it or it really left an impression--which was tightness, rhythm, etc.

I am not sure which way to go. I would really appreciate some guidance from all of the experts on AudioGon (I am still relatively new).

jlaz

Showing 1 response by rtn1

Sounds like you should go back for another listen.

Have not heard the integrated version, but the XA.5 series will have a harmonic richness and depth in the midrange that I have not heard in any other solid state amp. And yet, it gives-up nothing to natural detail. It is not hyper-detailed. I would say the Pass sound is more 'colored', potentially in a positive way.

That said, I would consider going with separates so you can have the option of using the Pass preamp or a tubed preamp. Greater flexibility in the long run.