2. amps-preamps
  3. 195414-178422

Pass Labs xa-25 or Coda Continum #8

I’m looking at both of these amps as future contenders. Downsizing to a one box amp or perhaps integrated(another thread for another time) and I’d like opinions on these 2. There are quite a bit of discussions on the xa25 and my speaker builder, Volti, says he’s heard with his speakers and it’s a good match. I currently have a 300b but moving may force my hand. Anyway, it’s really the Coda I’m not as familiar with. It has come up in some of the xa-25 discussions as an alternative. The incoming Volti’s are 99db so they don’t need a ton of juice obviously. Anyone with first hand experience with both? Any comments are appreciated. 
‘BTW, no single box tube amp suggestions. If I stay with tubes I already know which direction I’m going. 

earthbound
earthbound OP
236 posts
 

Thanks for the response. Very helpful since I’ve looked closely at every amp you listed! Lol

i will be using it with a 99db efficient speaker and a tube preamp with 50db gain. Could be a very nice fit. 
 

Btw, what is the efficiency of your speakers?

sls883
813 posts
 

Are your current speakers your end game speaker?  My speakers are 89dB efficiency and Doug Dale with Coda recommended the No 8 for me.  I have a large room which is also a factor.  Something to think about.

Honesty, I would guess that the 5.5 would drive my speakers, but I went with Doug's recommendation. 

earthbound OP
236 posts
 

I get them next week. I hope they are end game but you know how it goes. The #8 would power most speakers that I’d consider if the Volti didn’t work out. It’s certainly a safer bet. Thats why I will wait until I hear them. If I do love them, it would be between the xa-25 and s5.5. I read a lot of nice reviews about the s5.5. But, there are good reviews on most good products now. That’s why I come to the forums. Real world reports

ghdprentice
8,245 posts
 

I'd get the Volti, get them broken in, carefully set up, and then start thinking about an amplifier. I typically want to have a known starting point... as in I know what the speakers sound like with what I have... then start the search. 

sls883
813 posts
 

Sounds like a good plan.  

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