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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
jetter
3,033 posts
 
@mikem  

Your taking the time to write about your first hand experience with these three amps is very much appreciated.  From what you describe, and my own reading, I think I am most interested in purchasing the XA25.  I really should sell a couple of lesser amps that I have here first. 

By the way, was heat generated by the XA25 a problem at all?  Living here in Vermont it would be a plus for me in the winter.

Thanks
George
mikem
260 posts
 
@decooney 
I recently did the XP12 to 22 switch. It is more of everything as many have stated. To the point where I can hear the differences from another room in the house. My wife even can hear the difference and her only interest in this is how much I spend.. 
I did this on an in home trial, when I sent back the xp12,  He told me none the XP22’s  has ever been returned.
apparently the 22 uses a different topology, it’s not just a separate chassis for the PS. 

mikem
260 posts
 
@jetter
my pleasure.. I’m addicted to the music !! Glad to share..
I had the XA25 on an amp stand between the speakers, so it gets lots of breathing room. the heat sinks get quite warm, but it doesn’t heat up the room.. I live in NC and it was easy to live with in the summer. It really is a wonderful amp, using only 2 output devices per side vs 20 per side in the 30.8
Its not just an entry model, it’s based on a different output device that is simpler and require less supporting circuitry.. it’s a gem ! Good luck !
mikem
260 posts
 
@jetter  It’s easier to justify your purchase when you liquidate something to offset the cost..  I already have 2 preamps, CD player, countless tubes and cables sitting unused that need to be gone..  yet I feel compelled to keep it all..  it’s a sickness. I had the XP12 for a couple months and the dealer took it back for full amount towards the 22. Was too easy.. and tricky thinking I ONLY had to pay the difference..  lol.. I’m an audiophool ! But wise enough to know, to enjoy it while you can.. 
phd
1,316 posts
 
mikem, I thought I was the only one that was called an audiophool. I guess thats the way we all start off.
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