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Pass Integrated to Pass separates

Hello - I'm considering upgrading my pass int-150 to xp-10 and XA.60.5's (maybe even 100's). The problem I'm facing is my source components aren't the best. I have a vpi scout 2 and a ps audio phone pre, although (this is embarrassing) most of the music I listen to is through sonos. I'm wondering if this upgrade might be pointless and I should instead upgrade my source components first (cd/dac and phono).

One thought I had was to do the upgrade as planned and get an oppo 105 to hold me over until I'm ready for a big boy digital source. The truth in all of this is I'll probably continue to primarily listen through sonos (sorry I love it). What I'm really after is just more of the pass sound, I can't get enough, it's intoxicating. Just wondering if some better quality sources would be more appropriate and I'll get more satisfaction from them alternatively to the pass separates.

I appreciate any advice from the community.

Thanks!
skyflyer04
mtrot
804 posts
 
Nice! Would you give us your evaluation of the X250.5 after you spend some time with it? I'm also researching Pass, and was mainly considering the X150.5, but read some reviews on the 250 which have me reconsidering. And, yes, I've spoken with Mark and he is a class act to deal with.
cal3713's avatar
cal3713
1,421 posts
 
I have Thiel 2.4s and auditioned both an XA-30.5 and a X250.5. Surprisingly, the 30.5 was a no-contest winner. Might be worth the RenoHifi shipping cost just to try the XAs, even if you (and others) would expect the amp to be underpowered.
bo1972's avatar
bo1972
2,789 posts
 
I found the X150.5 dissapointing. The XA-30.5 is really stunning for the money.

The X150.5 and The integrated X version were the only two Pass amps which did not convince enough.
mtrot
804 posts
 
Bo, you said above you really like the X250.5 but the X150.5 not so much. Can you explain why there would be that much difference between two so similar amps? What did you feel the X150.5 lacks, for your purposes?
bo1972's avatar
bo1972
2,789 posts
 
The difference in sound, control and resolution.

I owned the XA30.5, 60.5 and 100.5. I loved the 30.5
for the money. The difference between the 30.5 and 60.5 is smaller than the difference between the 60.5 and 100.5.

I had the integrated to test for 2 months. I did not found it convincing like other Pass amps to be honest.
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