I have owned Luxman 590 integrated, M800a as monos, ARC Ref 250, Ayre MXR, Accuphase A70. Both the Luxman to Accuphase are fairly supple and rich sounding as far as solid state goes. In comparison to the Luxman, the Accuphase has better detail and micro-dynamics. It has as much bass drive and dynamics as the M800a in monos. Both have very high built quality. The Ref250 has slightly better micro dynamics and a trace wider tonal palette than the Accuphase. The Accuphase has more extended highs than both the ARC and the Luxman. All these amps are very good. Make sure you pay attention to phase if you use XLR. Japanese configuration is different. I also prefer the Accuphase to Xa100.8. The XA has slightly better bass macrodynamic and channel separation but I prefer the A70 for micro dynamics, detail, wider tonal palate and a more supple top end.
The Pass feels even more quiet and separation of individual instruments are very distinct. I almost feel these qualities are artifactual as each individual instruments in an orchestra should not occupy so much space . The portrayal of strings has more straight edges and violin sounds slightly stringent comparing to the A70 and the Ref250. The accuphase better conveys how one note evolve to the next and this keeps it interesting for me.
The Pass feels even more quiet and separation of individual instruments are very distinct. I almost feel these qualities are artifactual as each individual instruments in an orchestra should not occupy so much space . The portrayal of strings has more straight edges and violin sounds slightly stringent comparing to the A70 and the Ref250. The accuphase better conveys how one note evolve to the next and this keeps it interesting for me.
