2. amps-preamps
  3. 164376-156954

Disappointment with Pass Labs - I'm looking for something else

Hello, I am new to this forum and my mother tongue is not English, so please forgive me if I make mistakes as I use a translator.

I recently bought an XA30.8 and an XP12. I was very happy but as time went by I began to not feel comfortable with the sound.
After doing many tests, I find that the XA30.8 sounds very very sweet but actually too much. I find it to be a loosely defined amp, somewhat muddy and lacks a lot of air and grip. The soundstage is very closed.

The XP-12 is the worst of the two. It is a previous that removes a lot of resolution and information, without transient attacks and sunken mid frequencies. Instead it brings warmth.

Has anyone of you found the same?

If you ask me, I have a Klipsch Cornwall and a dCS BArtok.

Now I want a capable amp, forceful, something warm, decisive, airy and with a great soundstage.

At first I thought of changing my XA30.8 for X250.8, and changing the XP-12 for a second-hand Audio Research Ref5. I am afraid of this change and continue with Pass, since I can go back to the same thing a bit.

On the other hand I have thought of going for a Luxman 900 combo, since it has very good reviews and from what I have read it could be the winning ticket.
opm
audition__audio
1,504 posts
 
Another vote for Atma-sphere. 

I would also think that the problem lies more with the speaker than the electronics. 

I owned a XA 30.8 for a short time and could never warm to the sound. Perhaps it was attempting to serve too many masters and was good but not excellent in any category.
jayctoy's avatar
jayctoy
4,175 posts
 
I think your speakers will match tube more than solid state.
speakermaster
738 posts
 
You do not mention your source or if you have changed to good power cords and interconnects yet or a power conditioner dedicated line but you are talking about throwing a lot of money on gear my guess is you should concentrate on the setup of what you have you will probably learn how good the gear you already have is.
basser-x
8 posts
 
Maybe get ahold of Nelson and see if he can help you out. 
All of us can recommend all the equipment we like. Its your ears you must please.
arcticdeth's avatar
arcticdeth
1,572 posts
 
Klipsch is the problem.
the searing, molar pain inducing highs of your speakers is your issue.


Get a warmer speaker, problem solved.

You need new speakers.

 Are cornwalls great, sure,for those who like the Klipsch sound.

  Audition speakers BEFORE you discard the Pass amp & preamp. 
 You would be better with a soft dome tweeter. search , search, read, audition a lot of speakers.

  Your gear is amazing, and you belittling the preamp seems premature,  audition speakers if you can.

    
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