Thinking of upgrading from pass labs x250


I use my my X250 to power my infinity RS4.5s but having to move it to my main room to power Dunlavy SCIVAs.  I was using two citations IIs on them but the tubes just sound flat.  I know the pass labs will get the job done and was thinking of upgrading the pass labs during the transition.  Sure would like to get a X250.8 but a huge price difference.  For your info I use a Dude tube preamp on the front end.  I'm one of the guys that like mixing tubes on front.  Just a preference I guess.  I know the X250 is worth around $1500, maybe a little more.  So if I throw another $2000 into an upgrade what will $3500 get you used that hands down will put the X250 to shame?  I can't find anything.  I'm a guy that likes great mid-range, and detail.  So, I'm not a krell guy...  Just interested to see what others think.  By the way read about the X250.5 and many people say it is not a huge step up from the X250.....
robmag
If you're looking for mid-range and detail at $3500 you might try looking for a used Bryston 3B3 or 4B3.
There are a number of things you can do for the Dude preamp.  My friend has one and he did a few things.  Upgrade the 6SN7 tubes to Shuguang CV-181 tubes, upgrade the volume control to a KHOZMO ACOUSTICS volume control, change the output caps to either V-Cap Oil or V-Cap copper  I think the size is .47uF.  Also I can build you a hybrid power amp for your price with point-to-point wiring.  Think old Counterpoint SA-220 / NPS power amps without the reliability issues and better parts.

Happy Listening.  
robmag,

I have played with a lot of amps over the years from ARC both tubes and SS, Krells ML, CJ, Aragon, McCormack, Parasound, PS Audio, Bryston, B&K, Forte and on and on... including the Counterpoint SA-220 mentioned above.

I currently own a X250 and don’t think you’re going to find a amp for $3500 that’s going to embarrass your Pass unless you’re not happy with it to begin with. I had a used X250.5 in my system for a few days that I should have jumped on but didn’t really feel was a huge improvement over my X250 but it was better. I have not heard the .8 but agree it’s a bigger jump money wise and the reason I haven’t made the jump but when ready will more than likely consider it. If your Dunlavy’s don’t require a big amp which once a Dunlavy owner myself I don’t think they require a big amp, look into a smaller Pass XA amp.

Without knowing your system I’d look at changing out the Dunlavys. I owned a pair for a short time and worked at a store that sold them so I’ve heard and know all the models. When the store I worked at picked them up they were the rage and I’ll admit I got sucked into the reviews and etc. and bought a pair, including their interconnects and speaker cables that were rolled off on the top - boring cables. The owner of the store was very kind to let me bring them back at no lose and I opted for ProAcs which I much preferred.

Sorry so long, but I think if you’re looking for a warmer sound then I’d look at other speakers and keep your X250. Another note; don’t buy what the owner manual says that power cables don’t make a difference... total rubbish - sorry Mr.Pass. I first started with a Kimber PK10 Gold and settled on a Wywires Silver Juice II which both cables nicely improved the X250 over the stock PC. My latest tweak which slightly, but did tighten up (defined) the bass was placing a hockey puck under the stock feet. I think I paid $2 a puck so if you think I’m nuts you’ll only be out 8 bucks if you don’t agree they work.

Good luck