Pass Labs X250 vs Bryston 4BSST vs CJ MF2500A?


I need a more powerful amp for my B&W M802 SIII's. Right now I'm using a CJ MF2250 rated at 125 wpc. It's a sweet little amp, but not enough for these notoriously power hungry speakers. My listening room is only 12' X 16'. Originally, I set a "50 lb. limit" for a new amp, due mainly to my aging back, & the fact that my previous ARC VT100 MKII seemed so heavy at 65 lbs. This was only one reason that I have the Bryston 4B-SST, Bryston 7B-ST (44 lbs. per mono), & the CJ MF2500A on my "short list".

Lately tho I've been considering the Pass Labs X250. It weighs about 100 lbs., & is considerably more $$ than the others on my list. But I'm getting kind of seduced by the looks, & by what I've read about both the amp, & the customer service of Pass Labs. Is the Pass "better" sonically than the other amps I've mentioned? Or is a lot of the price difference due to the beautiful workmanship & relative exclusivity?

My other equipment: B&W M802SIII's, CJ PFR pre-amp, Cary 303-200 CDP, Fanfare tuner, Rega P25/Benz Glider (yes I also need to purchase a phono stage).

I plan to buy anything I get used. The Pass used is almost twice the cost of my other choices, but I could budget that much. Thanks in advance for any advice!
steveaudio
I have the MF2500A driving Thiel 3.6's and like it very much. The A upgrade was a substantial improvement. I would now consider it the equal to the Pass X250; which is also very good. I have not heard the Bryston so I can not comment.

Chuck
Hold on a sec, I see you have Matrix 802s. Champagne head I guess. FWIW, I heard these amps on Nautilus 802s, not that it makes much difference. Both are fine speakers.
Why not consider the Pass X150 as that may be more in line with the others in your price range?
I'm going to suggest Pass Aleph 2 monoblocs. I bought mine from someone here who owns 801s. He sold the Alephs to me when he went to the Tact Digital amp.
These amps have a very distinctive sound. They are also monoblocs, at 60 lbs. each they are much easier to move than a 100 lb X250.
These are true Class A & they will heat the room! I believe the sound is worth the heat.
Here is Doug's review on the amps I bought from him:
http://www.audioreview.com/Amplifiers/Pass%20Labs,Aleph,2,/PRD_116066_1583crx.aspx