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Mac MA 352 vs Pass INT-60

I've had an order in for the Mac MA 352 for 3 months and supposedly it's coming shortly.   I wanted the tube front end but now I've got an option since I no longer think I need a balance control and I just found a really good deal for a new Pass INT-60. I'm running these, hopefully, into KEF R7 Metas at 88 dB.  I figure the Pass is adequate into those 4 ohm speakers in my 25x14 space. I also figure the Pass has as much tube-like quality with likely a better high end than the Mac. If price is not a factor, what do you think?  The Pass is a beast, but I can deal with that, and my first real amp was a Threshold 400A.  I have some worry about current delays in Mac serviceability also.  :)

howardlee
dwest1023
353 posts
 

Howardlee

 

i do have pass 250. I traded my 60 for it. I also own 6 other intergrated, one being the Mac 352.

dwest1023
353 posts
 

Here is the skinny.  Having owned the Pass 60 and owning the 250, and the Mac 352. If you want warm and long listening, the 60 is the way to go.  If I had to do it all over again, I would have kept my pass 60 over the 250. The 250 is more neutral-sounding. There is a hint of warmth, but more detailed on the top.( my taste is warm.) Concerning the mac 352, if your eyes were closed, you would never know that amp had tubes in it. As has been metioned it can sound harsh.Tube change and Cardas cables correct that. My purchase of the Mac was that I just always wanted those blue meters. IMO, sound stage is deeper and wider with the Pass 250. As far as soundstage between the 352 and the Pass 60, I cannot say with certainty, as I use different speakers depending on the amp I rotate. 

I also have a Krell K300 i and its the most tube like solid state I have heard. 

howardlee's avatar
howardlee OP
167 posts
 

Thanks so much.  Hard to find anyone with that exact experience.  The INT-60 has been perfect in my system and just what I was looking for. Your post has made me feel even better about it.  As far as the blue meters go, well.......the guy I talked to at Pass said they wanted to get rid of theirs, but the customers didn't like that.  As for me, when I was looking at the Mac 352 the meters were the thing I most wanted rid of, especially with the fake accent lights on the tubes!

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