McCormack or Pass Labs

I just picked up my Pass X150 earlier this week and finally had some time to compare it directly to my DNA 1 Deluxe for a few hours over the weekend. When compared to the McCormack, the Pass has greater low level resolution, is more detailed without glare or brightness (even at high volumes), has a deeper image and throws a wider soundstage. The Pass also has better bass definition, but not the slam or depth of the McCormack.

My intitial perception was that the Pass X150 was rolled off or soft, not so. I was just used to the forward sound of the McCormack. Also with the McCormack I would have to hunt for the correct volume, the Pass is incredibly consistent and neutral sounding throughout the volume range.

I'll be keeping the Pass. Overall it's a better amp and a good size step up in performance from the McCormack. In this comparison it was only bested by the McCormack in bass slam and depth.

I had both, for a short time, the McCormack DNA-2 RevA & the Pass Labs X-350.
While both are excellent amps,
I preferred the McCormack seemingly complete control and authority over all aspects of the music.
And unless you need a room heater (X-350), the McCormack is also cheaper, cooler, biwire capable, but not as pretty.

Jwilt, Let us know how your date with the X-250 goes.

Jwilt, when browsing some old posts here on Audiogon I came across one about leaving your Pass Labs amp on all the time. I tried it on my X150 recently and can honestly say that to really hear the full potential of your X250 leave it powered up. At least give it a try, I think you'll be as surprised as I was.

-Dan

Dan: I think that's basically true of any piece of gear - including any amp - to a greater or lesser extent. Obviously no one's going to leave their tube amp always on though. My McCormack defintitely sounds best if I don't turn it off, but the lack of an output mute switch makes me a little apprehensive that the speakers could be damaged if something untoward were to transpire on the powerline while the system was unattended. (Not that I could probably do anything if that were to occur while I was in the room... :-)