LTA Ultralinear vs Pass Labs XA25
@ddafoe
I have owned both the XA-25 and 30.8. I much preferred the 30.8. I did not like the XA-25 and found it fatiguing to listen to for any extended time period even with a tube preamp. My speakers were the Sonus Faber Elipsa SE's. YMMV |
@ddafoe I mainly listen to jazz and rock and listen at about the same levels as you mentioned (80db avg). The XA-25 can easily push the Spendors to lounder levels but then it gets too loud for my space. I also like that the amp is smaller and lighter than the Rogue ST-100. It also doesn't get any warmer than the Rogue. |
@shahram In my system and room, driven by the matching Rogue RP-5 preamp, the Rogue ST-100 has better soundstage depth. The XA-25 is comparatively slightly more forward sounding in the midrange and guitars, horns and percussion have better presense. Through the Spendors, the top end is very smooth through both amps but the Pass has much better resolution of details. I can more easily differentiate between different cymbals and how then drummer is striking them through the Pass XA25 |
@knik Very interesting. I did notice when I upgraded to the D7s that the midrange, especially vocals, were more forward and in your face. I’m not sure I want it to be any more forward. I’m in a pretty small room (12x13 ft) so maybe the XA25 will not suit my tastes in my room. I’m not really looking for more detail, or resolution. My musical fidelity (KW-500) integrated is providing plenty of that. I want to add touch of richness and maybe a smoother/creamier top end. The Rogue ST-100 or Pass XA30.8 might just be a better fit for me. |
