2. amps-preamps
  3. 192936-1301

Pass INT-25, split decision and maybe option?

I recently bought a used INT-25 to drive my PureAudioProject Trio15Classic. I have never been so torn by an amp as by this one! On one hand the details are addictive, but on the other hand, the details can be so distractive that I struggle to listen to the music. The INT-25 does do space really well and that’s definitely something I love and look for in an amp. I do miss some of the midrange magic and the warmth that a tube amp brings as well.

 

At this point, I’m not sure the INT-25 is going to stay. There’s so many things I love about it, but other things that distracts me from listening to the actual music.

 

I also miss some of the warmth that tubes bring. Is there such a thing as an integrated tube (or hybrid) that retains all the strength of the INT-25, but adds the midrange magic and warmth of the tube amp? Don’t mind if I lose some of the distracting details in the recording, but don’t want to give up too much of that. The PAP's do like a bit of power (the INT-25 is definitely sufficient), so low power SET's are not likely where I'd go.

128x128audiojan
decooney
2,160 posts
 

To @audiojan did you happen to notice the other cable thread and questions going on right now, one member posted something similar about your same SilverSmith Fidelium cables?

I’d recommend you message this member [@sls883] and ask more and why they changed to something else, our what changed since.  Maybe worth checking into this more potentially, look here:

https://forum.audiogon.com/posts/2766914

 

curiousjim's avatar
curiousjim
4,868 posts
 

While I have almost no experience with PrimaLuna, they have at least 4 different, all tube integrated amplifiers you can check out.  With tube rolling, you could customize the sound to one that makes you happy.

All the best.

anton99
55 posts
 

Have you considered the Sugden A21 SE? Less expensive than the Pass, but some reviewers prefer it to the INT-25; slightly larger soundstage. I think you'll find a slightly warmer sound, as well. Voices are lovely.

audiojan's avatar
audiojan OP
419 posts
 

I'm pretty set on keeping my Silversmith Fidelium cables. Of all the cables I've tried over the years (and they're quite a few and almost all more expensive than the Silversmith's), these the most neutral, detailed, yet smooth cables I've tried.

Same goes for the digital front end. Replacing the PS Audio DirectStream Sr (with multiple modifications) would cost way more than replacing the amp.

Also, I'm not going back to separates again. I've had some many over the years and the simplicity of an integrated is getting more appealing the older I get.

 

So I'm either going to stay with the INT-25 (and there's a lot that I love about it!) or I'm going to a tube integrated (and there's a lot I love about tubes).

 

I do appreciate all the input and options offered up.

jonwolfpell
405 posts
 

Might want to check out the Roger’s High Fidelity 65 V - 2 tube integrated. Superior build quality, lifetime warranty & sounds great if powerful enough for you. 

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