2. amps-preamps
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Pass XA 25 versus Parasound A21+ - anyone compare?

Basically I'm looking at solid state amps to run my current Totem Rainmakers - with the possibility of upgrading the speakers to Joseph Audio Pulsars (used if I can find some) as well.

My listening room is modest sized - about 18' by 13" with 8' foot ceiling.

Rest of system: Naim cd 5 player, Hana EL cartridge on a vintage Pioneer 600 table, Classe DR 5 II preamp.  Amp to be replaced is original Adcom 555.

I'm thinking both could work well, with the Parasound providing more dynamics and the Pass more finesse.  Obviously the Pass is about an extra $1000, which is a factor given the modestly priced system.  Also no balanced option with the Pass - not sure that is important.

BTW no Pass or Joseph dealer in my area (Atlanta), though Parasound is available for a listen.

Thoughts?
bobbydd
avanti1960
1,476 posts
 
OP is asking about a21 "plus" not the outgoing a21. we would assume an improvement in the new model, which was recently rated Stereophile Class A. Also compared favorably to the Benchmark AHB2.
For such exclusive amps used Pass Labs are frequently available.
erik_squires
16,058 posts
 
I’ve heard a lot of Pass and a lot of Parasound.  Neither have great bass, but while the Parasound sounds warm, Pass always sounds lean to my ears.  They both lack absolute smoothness in the mid to treble region.

I can’t listen to pass for very long without getting annoyed at it. I can listen to Parasound forever. It's faults just don't itch me the way Pass does.

There’s still a lot out there I like better, but for the money if those are your two choices, Parasound hands down.

Another two the OP should listen to is Ayre and Luxman. Between those four the OP will 100% develop a strong personal preference that will make my own meaningless.

wlutke
725 posts
 
The Xa-25 sounds like no other Pass amp, "house sound" logic does not apply.  Hearing over assumption, always.  
jl35
3,982 posts
 
Reno has them now...my only guess is that you will pretty quickly know which you prefer once you try both in your system...both are very popular and well reviewed, though clearly have some that do not like them at all, never ever...
mesch
3,481 posts
 
 Maybe the power difference between these amplifiers should be in consideration given the possibility of upgrading to the Pulsars.

What is room size, desired loudness levels, dynamic level demand?
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