2. amps-preamps
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Moscode 401HR vs Pass Labs X150.5

So...for those that followed my previous thread, I am still in the hunt for the best amp under $2500 (after auditioning and returning a set of mono amps). I really have not been able to find much on the differences between these two amps sonically. I know the Pass has better resale value, but that's not my primary concern, although it is a concern for sure. The Moscode is rated at 200w into 8ohms (300 into 4ohms), the Pass at 150w (also 300w into 4 ohms I believe). I also know that Moscode improved upon the 401HR with the 402AU. Anyway, my tastes are bluesy rock, female vocalists and jazz. My system is as follows

AIFF lossless => Peachtree Nova USB DAC/Preamp => ??AMP?? => Dynaudio Contour S3.4 spkrs (4ohm load, 88db)

If anybody out there can offer comments as to how these two amps compare (or don't!) I would appreciate it. Thanks
fredorama
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rleff
1,065 posts
 
Any interest in the roland model 2 and 3's that are for sale;I have model 6 mono's and they drive my soundlab m2's and usher rw729 extremely well and have the tube like sound as well.
thesoundhouse
250 posts
 
With an 88 dB and a 4ohm load the Moscode will probably be OK with the Dynas. I had a chance to listen the S5.4 and they do sound good. I asked my audio tech friend and he said S3.4 should be fine with the newer moscode amps. He thinks the chasis set up is too tight and will over time need service because of the heat. He also pointed out that He is glad that Moscode are now using newer output devices but it is still a Hafler design with a tube input stage!
fredorama OP
50 posts
 
Grant (Tvad) I always appreciate your thoughtful and on-point responses. Soundhouse, I appreciate your experience withthe older Moscode amps and your comments as well. I decided on an ARC 100.2, which saved me about $800, and fit into my equipment rack. It sounds very very nice on some recordings, but not so special on others. Like some days it makes my jaw drop and others, well, it sounds good, but not jaw-dropping. Maybe Im nuts, but the sound seems inconsistent. Is this possible? I thought amps basically either worked or didn't work.
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