2. amps-preamps
  3. 190102-89202

Quandary

I’m really happy with my system. However when a technician, who is also a salesman, came to my house for a stereo repair he complimented my set but said it would sound a lot better if I switched out my Benchmark AHB2 amp (which I think is great) for a Pass 30 wpc class AB amp. He offered to let me hear that amp in my system so that I could decide for myself (at a fee of $300.) The only problem is he doesn’t  have the 30 watt amp in stock but would have to demo the Pass sound with 60 watt monoblocks. He assured  me that with my very efficient GoldenEar Triton 1 speakers the 30 watt amp will almost have the the same quality.

Do you think I can honestly judge how the smaller amp will actually sound? Or should I cancel the demonstration (and save$300?)

128x128rvpiano
dweller's avatar
dweller
3,759 posts
 

If $300 is not an extreme burden for you, I'd give the new amp a try. The fact that you are very happy with the Benchmark doesn't mean you couldn't be "happier".

I'm ecstatic with my B&W 804D3 but would love to hear the new SVS Titans in my system. Just part of my "Explorer" DNA. Also: Pass XA-25, Jadis I50, Wireworld Eclipse 8 speaker cable, Mola-Mola DAC, etc.

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rvpiano's avatar
rvpiano OP
2,516 posts
 

I am really conflicted now. Evidently weak-minded. When I read the negative posts I was all set to ditch the audition. Now that I read positive remarks, I’m not so sure.
I guess I’ll never know until I listen to the Pass sound, even if it isn’t the same exact amp.  If I decide to buy it the $300 will be deducted from the cost.

rvpiano's avatar
rvpiano OP
2,516 posts
 

Now that I’m listening to more recordings objectively I’m hearing the brightness of the Benchmark sound which could be tamed by Pass.

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