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The imperfect amp: Pass or Ayre?

There are two high end SS amp brands which, from a technical perspective, don’t do very well, which I am thinking of:

Ayre and Pass.

Pass has stated that even ordered distortion is euphonic. Ayre’s zero feedback, diamond circuit has a great deal of distortion compared to the very best measuring amps.

I have to admit, that like an IPA vs. a Belgian White, I have a very strong preference, but my preference is not canon. It is just how my wallet moves me. You should in no way feel like my tastes matter. Buy what makes you giddy with joy.

Would you, kind lady or gentleman, tell us if you have heard both, what did you think?? Is this to narrow? Would you throw another brand into the ring??
erik_squires
gdnrbob
4,445 posts
 
@tomic601 , 
How I envy you...

I hate to sidetrack, and, I probably should just PM you, but I'm here...
You mentioned you had both a non-Twenty and Twenty version of an Ayre amp. Could you describe the differences between the two versions?
I keep wondering if I should upgrade.
Bob
wolf_garcia
6,696 posts
 
I use Elixer Nanoweb lights.
caphill
674 posts
 
Good components or gears are the ones that provide us with musical enjoyments. We can never judge hifi audio components with bunch of numbers (measurements). We all have to listen, listen, listen. What I look for in amps and other components or gears is musical involvement and engagement if it's used for stereo music application. 
I won't look for their distortion measurements, etc, etc. 
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
We can never judge hifi audio components with bunch of numbers (measurements).
It’s what all "good" designers use to make their components, yes they also listen at the end and change those "numbers/measurements" to suit.
There is no voodoo involved!
And if you have components that were built not doing this, then you most certainly have a pile of junk!

Cheers George
markum01
125 posts
 
Haters gonna hate!
Enjoy the music
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