2. amps-preamps
  3. 161187-138743

Pass Labs XA30.8

Hi all,

I had the opportunity to audition the Pass Labs XA30.8 at a dealer was really like the whole presentation - huge,deep soundstage with great depth.

My preamp is Simaudio Moon 390. I am wondering if anyone here is running this combo - Moon 390 with Pass Labs XA30.8s.

My speakers are fairly efficient (92.5dB).

While my current combo (Moon 390 preamp and Moon 330A power amp) is great, the presentation is a little in your face. It feels like I am sitting in the front row with the band right in front. I want a more laid back presentation and hence the mind flirtation with the XA30.8s :)

Appreciate any input if anyone is running this exact combo. Please note I am only looking at XA30.8s and not the X series or any of their Class A mono blocks.

Thanks!
sim_audio_nerd
ddafoe
260 posts
 
I don't have the exact match but it is pretty close.   For 5 years or so I ran a 740P + 380DSD into a X250.8.   I think it sounded great; very musical with lots of front to back soundstage depth.   I went from a 600i integrated and it was like moving back a decent number of rows in terms of detail retrieval when I added in the Pass amp and separate SimAudio preamp.  The soundstage depth also exploded with a very nice 3d like presentation.    Based on my results and your suggested preferences, I would think that would be a killer combo.  I'm actually tempted to try an XA30.8 against my 250.8 as my current speakers no longer need the muscle of the big Pass.

Cheers


aberyclark
1,410 posts
 
Hi have the Firstwatt J2 and thinking to going up to the 30.8. I hear it will be just a little bit more dynamic and snappy
soix
10,256 posts
 
If you’re open to tubes I’d take a look at ARC amps.  Over on eBay there’s another great Class-A option in the Valvet A4 at $3995, which seems like a good deal and would likely also deliver the qualities you’re looking for.  Best of luck. 
More to discover