2. amps-preamps
  3. 1036370656

Class A and B differences?

I have been auditioning the Pass Labs X-250 amp along with the Spectron Digital amp versus my Kinergetics KBA-75 power amp. My system consists of a Sony SCD-777ES, BAT VK-30SE preamp, B&W 803 matrix series II speakers, Acoustic Zen silver ref. ICs, Hologram speaker cables, JPS digital AC and power AC cords along with an Audience power AC cord. I hear the differences between the amps but I was expecting to hear larger differences, like a WOW what have I been missing. The Pass has more detail and seperation but maybe 10% max 15%. Is that the difference between a class A rated amp and a class B rated amp? Or is my Sony CD player or B&W speakers not up to the Pass amp capabilities?

Your comments are appreciated.
bigkidz

Showing 2 responses by bigkidz

bigkidz OP
3,447 posts
 
Thanks for the responses but in general I was referring to amp ratings by reviewer ratings and not the class A or A/B. My question still remians, if my Kinergetics amp was rated by Stereophile 10 years ago as a B rated component and the Pass X-250 probably an A rated amp, why is the Pass only providing a 10-15% improvement, I was hoping for more since the Kinergetics amp is a 12 year old design. Or is this what I should be happy with. I did not get goose bumps with the Pass like I thought I would.

Any help is appreciated.
bigkidz OP
3,447 posts
 
I am not saying that the Pass does not sound good and maybe I should not expect more than a 10-15% improvement. I just WANTED to be so blown away that I had no other option but to buck up the $$$. I am hearing a very refined amp with the Pass, very musical, natural sounding, but I guess that I was thinking of 30-50% improvement from a $6K amp versus the $2200 ten year old Kinergetics. I asked the question awhile ago to upgrade speakers or amp and got a very mixed review. It was easier to audition amps in my home since many dealers are willing to let me try them out versus sending speakers. I also have the Linar Audio amp coming this week and possibly a BAT VK-500 or 6200. Any others? Most of the amps can be bought for $3500 or less new or demo so that would be my price range.

Thanks for all the repsonses.

Peter
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