Pass Labs or Audio Research Solid State Amplifiers


I was considering Pass Labs or Audio Research solid state amps and preamps. Which one of these do you think would sound better? I am open to suggestions, I just dont want a budget amplifier, as that is what I have had so far. FYI, I have never owned a amp that cost more than $1700 or a pre that cost more than $900....

I listen mostly to music like metalica and megadeath.
I listen to my music pretty loud. I would figure I would need an amp as powerful as the one I use now -- even though I NEVER turn it up to its full limits. The amp I use now is a budget amp that is 200w x 2 into 8 ohms, 300w x 2 into 4 ohms. Any and all suggestions of what to do and specific model numbers will be appreciated! Help Please!!!
verybestaudio

Showing 1 response by robertd

Audio Research LS3B preamp just rocks, but it's not as refined as some other preamps out there. I have one and I used it till I went with a passive control unit, to get that spooky last drop of info on Jazz and classical. It had tons of attack, a ton of gain, great if you like it loud, and I really liked the bass on it. I think it's selling for well under $1,000 now, and it's very reliable and has the classic ARC look. In it's day it was a sterophile class a.