Simaudio W-5 or Pass X-250 for Dynaudio Special 25


Hi,

I'm thinking about upgrading my McCormack DNA-125 to either one of these amps and though I'm sure either one would work very well, I'd like to know if anyone has a strong preference one way or the other. Of course, I'm open to other suggestions as well. I want an amp that has iron-fisted control but is not at all strident or sterile. $3,000 range is where I'm looking. Rest of system is as follows:

Denon DVD-3800
Proceed AVP2
McCormack DNA-125

Thanks.
tim916
I have the Pass X-250 and I can't imagine you wouldn't be thrilled with it. Its neutral,dynamic,detailed,great bottom end and freakin gorgeous. Its a large amp-so make sure you have the room(floor space) for it. I can't comment on the Simaudio although I know they make tremendous gear.
I've heard the Sim Audio w-5 in my system as well as the LE version and would buy one in a heart beat if money were not a consideration. I run a speaker that uses all Dynoaudio drivers and no amp has controlled it with such an iron fist with a velvety tube like quality as the Moon has. The resolution on thses amps is truly first rate and the soundstaqge is the best in terms of sheer size and height. Dynamics must be heard to be believed,I strongly recommend auditioning one if you can. Take care Dennis
I am using Atmaphere m-60s with the superb Dynaudio Special 25s,this past Christmas I have heard the 25s with Simaudio L.E. gear.Very,very good solid state. This little speaker is really something to behold,I was set to purchase the fabulous Merlins a year ago when the 25s where shipped to my dealer,The Russian birch veneer attracted me.I compared the Merlins to the 25s using Atmaphere amps and pre,analog front end.... It did not take long to reallize the Special 25s are a better speaker and for less money....Listen to these amps if you can,driving the 25s ,you can not go wrong with Simaudio, Atma-phere,and David Berning driving the 25s.
Stiltskin,

Slightly OT, but did you by any chance audition the Confidence C1 as well? When I purchased my Special 25's the dealer had C1's on hand but he thought the 25 would be a better speaker for my room (which at the time it was) so I never listened to them. However, since then I have heard a lot of good things about the C1's.

Thanks for your imput on the amps. At this point I am leaning a bit towards the W-5, mainly because it has a good reputation of having synergy with Dyns.