2. amps-preamps
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Pass XA 25 versus Parasound A21+ - anyone compare?

Basically I'm looking at solid state amps to run my current Totem Rainmakers - with the possibility of upgrading the speakers to Joseph Audio Pulsars (used if I can find some) as well.

My listening room is modest sized - about 18' by 13" with 8' foot ceiling.

Rest of system: Naim cd 5 player, Hana EL cartridge on a vintage Pioneer 600 table, Classe DR 5 II preamp.  Amp to be replaced is original Adcom 555.

I'm thinking both could work well, with the Parasound providing more dynamics and the Pass more finesse.  Obviously the Pass is about an extra $1000, which is a factor given the modestly priced system.  Also no balanced option with the Pass - not sure that is important.

BTW no Pass or Joseph dealer in my area (Atlanta), though Parasound is available for a listen.

Thoughts?
bobbydd

Showing 2 responses by erik_squires

erik_squires
15,647 posts
 
So far the XA25 sounds grainy and edgy in the upper midrange and lower treble.
The a21+ is nothing but smooth.

Yeah, that was my experience as well. The best experience I had with Pass was still too lean. From what I’ve read of listeners who I felt had good critical listening skills and weren’t just total Pass fanboys, they may perform at theri best with big cabinet speakers like Tannoys and Klipsch or big JBLs.
erik_squires
15,647 posts
 
I’ve heard a lot of Pass and a lot of Parasound.  Neither have great bass, but while the Parasound sounds warm, Pass always sounds lean to my ears.  They both lack absolute smoothness in the mid to treble region.

I can’t listen to pass for very long without getting annoyed at it. I can listen to Parasound forever. It's faults just don't itch me the way Pass does.

There’s still a lot out there I like better, but for the money if those are your two choices, Parasound hands down.

Another two the OP should listen to is Ayre and Luxman. Between those four the OP will 100% develop a strong personal preference that will make my own meaningless.

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