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Best Tube Amp For Sonus Faber? Or Pass XA-100.5? $6-7,500 Budget, Purchasing Used.

As the title says, I have a pair of Sonus Faber Olympica III's that I am more than pleased with, for which I am trying to determine the best available amplifier, preferably tube. Of course, there are always budget limitations and my budget for this amp would be $6-7,500, and I would be buying used to maximize purchasing power.

Based on a lot of research, and quite a few auditions at brick and mortar stores, various home systems, Axpona, etc. I'm honestly not sure if there are any truly exceptional tube amplifiers available within that budget that meet my needs. These speakers need 100wpc tubed, or 200 wpc solid state, into 4 ohms to really open up and perform. 

If, in the end, there are no really great tubed options, I've always heard that the Pass Labs XA-100.5's were probably the optimal choice in solid state for former tube lovers. I would also appreciate any thoughts on that option from owners. 
nightfall
wharfy's avatar
wharfy
320 posts
 
Nightfall-Timing indeed. Wondering if the preamp is the LS-27?

When I auditioned and purchased my ProAc's I listened to them with Ref75SE/LS-27 combo, and then Reference 5 preamp. The Reference 5 was great, but at $5K more I had a difficult time justifying the purchase. That's just me, though.

I currently have the Ref75SE/LS-17SE driving ProAcs D30R's and in the near future will upgrade to an LS-27.
chumsusi's avatar
chumsusi
26 posts
 
I would think the Line Magnetic 219ia. New is $7,500. There is one on Audiogon now for $5,000.

Again, only giving additional option.


markmendenhall
221 posts
 
FWIW, great results powering my SF Oly 3's with a Pass X150.8 stereo amp. Tubed pre: First Sound PD mk III with dual power supplies and recent S upgrade.  I just don't believe you can go wrong with either the Pass nor the First Sound.  Absolutely dead quiet background; full, coherent, musical, linear, detailed and emotionally engaging reproduction. Adding a second power supply to the FS was a game changer: tighter, deeper bass, plus a bigger soundstage.  
djfst
169 posts
 
nightfall,

here is a thread discussing the Pass Labs, VAC, and other amps that might be helpful.  best of luck:

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/vac-200-iq-vs-ayon-orthosii
nightfall OP
188 posts
 
Chumsusi, thanks for the Line Magnetic  219ia recommendation. Obviously we "were" thinking alike. However, that's my amp for sale. Just purchased it ten days ago. Wonderful sound, but it simply can't drive the Olympica III's well enough. :(
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