Pioneer M-22 or Pass Aleph 3?

I had one of Nelson' Aleph stereo amps plus I've owned several M-22s and M-25s. I would place the M-22 above the Aleph stereo primarily due to the "magic" factor. The M-22 is one of the greatest low powered amplifiers that I've had the privilege to own and audition. Its magic is based upon a to-die-for liquid midrange coupled with simply holographic image placement. I prefer it to the excellent Classe DR2/3. The Aleph did nothing wrong, it just did not have that certain something we all strive for. It is not remembered as classic. Just a good basic amp. The mono blocks bettered it.

Peter

When I talk classics, I mean amps such as Nelson's SA-1s, Krell KSA 50 or 100. Amps that transcend the normal. Again, I'm referring to the Aleph stereo model that was square in shape. I don't believe these particular stereo amps are as "collectable" as the SA-1s, or an S-500. Mind you, they have a following, as many of Nelson's products do, but those who like them perhaps may not have heard SA-1s. The Aleph monos are though, very very good. I have a dear reviewer friend who has them singing in his Wilson based system.

Just my thoughts,

Peter

Leo,

Try a Pioneer M-25 if you want to experiment (just don't sell that M-22 to do it). The M-25 has more punch and edge definition a-n-d gobs of power, less magic but that's ok. And shhhhhhh, about the M-05, one of the world's greatest amplifiers. I'll leave that to a Stereophile article.

Peter

M-05

But both are great amplifiers.

Peter