Pass Labs XA30.8

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

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. 

Hey sim_audio_nerd

I am sorry, I do not have your Moon 390 preamp, I use a PS Audio BHK Signature preamp with the XA30.8 and I absolutely love it. You should know something about me as an audiophile. I’m very picky. A friend of mine owns a hifi store so I’m very fortunate, he sells me stuff at his cost. If I buy a product and I don’t think it’s great, I’ll sell it within one year. Because I get to buy things a true cost, I’m not afraid to try products that have received rave reviews that he may not have in his store. There are a lot of products out there that get rave reviews that I find good but rarely are they great. If I don’t find it to be great after it’s fully broken in, I’ll sell it. I only keep what I consider great. I still can’t believe how great that amp is. I’ve had 4 or 5 different preamps in front of that amp and at least 4 or 5 different pairs of speakers connected to it and it always sounds so musical. It’s so good, I have no desire to try anyone else’s amp. 

With regard to needing efficient speakers, doesn’t matter. I’m using Eminent Technology LFT8B speakers (which I love) and they are 83db and that XA30.8 drives them effortlessly and always remains so musical it’s not even funny. That amp is all power supply and will drive just about any speaker. In my opinion, Nelson Pass builds some of the best sounding solid state amps out there. For me, a good tube preamp with some good vintage nos tubes from the 50’s or 60’s and the XA30.8 are one of the most musical sounding combos you can get. The XA30.8 is phenomenal! Hope that helps.

Scot

Running the XA30.8 in a Pass Labs & Linn with Spendor speaker system. Love this amp...

@ddafoe @scothurwitz Thank you very much for your input and thoughts. I think it is clear now that I must try the XA30.8 with my system and hopefully purchase one.

Cheers!