Pass INT-25 better than Wilsenton R8?
I have recently purchased a Pass Labs INT-25. It replaced a Wilsenton R8 with NOS tubes (EL-34). I feel that the sound im getting from the Pass is not 5000.00 better. Has anyone purchased a INT-25 and not been blown away from the sound? I do think that the 25 has a wider soundstage.
I have a FirstWatt F8 amplifier, which has a similar power output rating. I tried an Emotiva PT-1 preamp. Not really bad, but too bright. I swapped in a Van Alstine Transcendence RB 10 tube preamp. Now the sound is excellent. If you give the INT-25 time to settle in and like the result, you are done. If not, you could even try feeding the output of a tube preamp into an INT-25 line input.
|
Comparing the prices on both won't be a fair comparison. The R8 is being sold direct from China, while Pass Labs has a dealer network. Secondly, break-in with Pass Labs is true. My F8 took 3 months to burn-in. After which, it's one of my favorite amps. My X150.8, about 1 month. I'm currently evaluating a Kinki EX-M7, its an amazing amp. I recommend auditioning one.
|
@travisg Why did you go from tube to SS ? btw this is coming from a pass fan.
What I would have done from r8 is go to a used Jadis or VAC that is around $5-6k. Guessing that would be a big upgrade. |
@travisg How many hours had you been listening to the Pass before posting this thread? |
