Pass Labs Amps - Does the heat bother you?


I am very intrigued by pass amplifiers (NOT the intergateds). I have heard many good things about them. However, I also have heard from many people that they get really hot. I am interested in the stereo amps.... like the X350. 

Curious, if you own one or used to own one... how do/did you deal with the heat? I wouldn’t want it heating up my living room where the AC runs more (which kills my music enjoyment session). 

Also, I usually leave my  amp on from 5:00 pm till I go to bed (anywhere from 9:00 pm to 12 am). Not sure how that would come into play if a pass labs would be a good fit for me. 

 

dman777

@dman777  what are you going to do? Based on all the responses from experienced members, you have more than enough anecdotal information to make a decision. Let me know if you list your 861. I might be interested. 
 

@audiopacer Ok. It will be a a few months before I decide (if I decide). I really like the 861 :) It's a very unique sound to have it so warm but so resolving. 

The Pass Aleph 5 isn't really warmer than the CJ 62SE. If I play loud (for me, 80 dB can be loud) for a while, the room can get a bit warmer after two hours or so. It's quite nice, as I keep the house on the cool side over the winter. 

Friend

 

Congratulations on being able to have discretionary funds to make the purchase.  Since this question will have many responses - I will be brief:

Please add Convergent Audio Technology to your list.  If you can somehow make it to an audio show where they showcase their equipment - you can get a great feel for the sonics of their product.

My perspective may be on the warmer end of this spectrum - I have a set of Pass XS150s, ~450lbs of all Class A in a room that measures 27X36X9ft. These idle around 700W. In the winter they can add 5-6 degrees to the room after about 4-6 hours of listening. In the summer, the air conditioning more than compensates - and the impact is nil. 

I love the sound of Pass - especially Class A, and they have had some time to warm up. They sound even better after 2-3 glasses of amazing pinot, and even more so as the lights dim.