Power Amp for Focal Scala Utopia Evo (Pass, Luxman, Moon, Mc, or Audia Flight?)Hi everyone


Hi everyone,

I am looking for some guidance on choosing a solid-state power amplifier to pair with my Focal Scala Utopia Evos. Unfortunately, I am unable to demo these options in my home environment, so I am relying heavily on your experiences and impressions.

The Contenders: All of the following are in a similar price bracket in my region ($20k):

  • Pass Labs: X350.8

  • Luxman: M-10x

  • Simaudio Moon: 861

  • McIntosh: MC462

  • Audia Flight: Strumento No.4 MkII

My Current System Chain:

  • Source: Hifi Rose RS130

  • DAC: Gustard R30

  • Preamp: Octave HP700SE (Tube)

  • Cabling: Full Neotech UP-OCC loom (Power, Interconnects, Speaker cables)

Listening Preferences: I listen to a wide variety of genres. You can view my reference playlist here for a better idea of my taste: The Palette of Resonare - Apple Music

Given that I am running a Tube preamp (Octave), I am looking for the power amp that offers the best synergy with the Scalas. I would appreciate any thoughts on the tonal characteristics of these matches.

 

darkknight8586

@soix Yeah, the XA60.8 produces a lot of heat. It is in the same price range as the X260.8 and X350.8. To be honest, the Scala is not a very hard-to-drive speaker; the minimum impedance only reaches 3.2 ohms. So, I'm torn between the XA60.8 and X260.8 (since both are monoblocks for better channel separation). Would the X260.8 be the better choice to combine sweetness (high bias in Class A for the first 34W) with speed (Class AB for better bass grip)?

I’m using an Octave Audio HP700 pre and MRE220 amps with KT150 tubes and super black boxes with my Focal Scala Evos.  I’m very happy with the sound.   Sweet sound but still with good dynamic bass.   Have you thought about just sticking with Octave?

@rshad0000 Yup, I still have my Octave preamp (HP700SE), I think they are decent in this price range. But I might choose solid state Power amp for better bass grip and more neutral tonal balance instead of full system of tube. 

@darkknight8586 10K for two right? if so that is a no brainer

 

If not, the MC462 is still my recommend