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Upgrade from Pass Labs XA30.8 to X250.8. Worth it?

I am getting ready to make some upgrades to the system. I currently running a DAC into a BAT51SE, then a Pass Labs XA30.8, then finally into Decware DM947 speakers (don't worry if you've never heard of them; not the last word in speakers, but have been doing a solid job for about 5 years now.)

I am contemplating moving up the Pass Labs amplifier line, and the X250.8 looks attractive. I would like to hear more bass authority and definition, but I don't really want to sacrifice the mids and highs of the 30.8. 

I would love to hear some of your impressions of the X250.8, especially if you are able to make some direct comparisons to the XA30.8. I've spoken with both Mark at Reno Hifi, and Kent English of Pass Labs; both are wonderful and informative people. What I am interested in now is the opinions and experiences of end users of either of these amps. 

Thanks! 
willrich47
willrich47 OP
52 posts
 
@hk_fan You’re not wrong. Indeed, that is how my current setup works. I have an SVS SB-16 picking up the lowest frequencies. 

Part of getting a sub integrated is making it not call too much attention to itself; just picking up the frequencies that are lacking in the speaker itself. Most of the bass I am hearing in my system comes from the XA30.8. 

I remember one of the very first “hi-fi” systems I heard 5 or so years ago had a very tactile, visceral feel to it. No matter the subwoofer I use, the 30.8 is not going to produce that visceral aspect of the music. 

I would agree, the mids and highs are second to few. My hope is that further up the Pass line somewhere is an amp that has more of that power, but with the finesse in the mids and highs that the 30.8 has.
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willrich47 OP
52 posts
 
@jl35 how are the mids and highs on the X250.8 compared to the XA30.8?
jl35
4,007 posts
 
More clear and detailed 
earthtones
110 posts
 
I’m expecting a set of XA 60.8s from Reno Hifi to arrive in a few days. I too, have an XA 30.8. Although I’m expecting the bass to improve, I’m really seeking improvements in imaging, sound staging and a greater sense of ease, which my discussion with Reno Hifi and my reading of the description on the Pass Labs site have led me to expect. Based on everything I’ve read and heard, and especially John Atkinson’s review of the XA 60.5’s, I’m tempted to think that the XA 60.8s are their best sounding amps. I don’t see how their more powerful XA’s could be as good in terms of finesse, but again that’s my conjecture. I have the lower bass covered with my Vandersteen Quatro CTs. I can’t wait to hear them!
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