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New Pass Labs X.5 series versus previous X series

Pass Labs is in the process of re-dedesigning their entire X series into the new X.5 series. As of this writing X150.5, X250.5 and possibly X350.5 are already shipping. The X600.5 are expected to start shipping early in the new year. This thread is to discuss experiences with the new amps, their sound signature, perceivable improvements over the old series, and of course dissenting opinions. Everyone's perspective is welcome--X and X.5 owners, X.5 window shoppers, Dealers, and all other audiogoners with a passion for affect by the bug of audiophilia.
guidocorona
guidocorona OP
4,298 posts
 
Irish65, which model are you breaking in exactly? Thanks, Guido
irish65
170 posts
 
Guidocorona
On your last post on 12-4-04 you encouraged any with the X350.5 to give their impressions/findings. So I was referring to the X350.5.
irish65
170 posts
 
Sigmund
How many hours do you have on your 350.5? I would like to hear what has transpired with the X350.5 since your last post when you first received it. In other words how has the amp improved or not.
guidocorona OP
4,298 posts
 
Thank you Irish65 for the clarification.
guidocorona OP
4,298 posts
 
Just spoke to Peter perkins at pass today and got an update on the upcoming X600.5. The engineering prototype device has now been making music for a while.
According to Peter, the team at Pass is now auditioning what may very well be the final tweak of the design. Everyone seems to be happy about the results, but the final go-ahead to close the engineering/design phase and transition to full scale production, will come only after a final audition/approval by the company CEO.
Peter suspects that full production may be under way by the end of May 2005.
I asked specifically about audible differences with X350.5. Peter answered that while there is a lot of similarity with X350.5, the X600.5 has even greater ease, liquidity, bass control, channel separation, and overall 'sparkle'. He suggests that the difference is not due to any design change, but to the complete separate chassis implementation and the dedicated power supplies in each monoblock.
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