2. amps-preamps
  3. 170131-98013

Recommendation for a highly resolving amp

I have Don Sachs 2 tube preamp driving Pass Labs X350.5 driving Sound Lab M545 ESL speakers. I like the sound very much, but when I went to hear my friend’s Spectral system (driving Quad2912 ESL) I realized my system can benefit from having a higher resolution amp. Spectral amps need all Spectral preamp/cabling, which would be quite expensive. What would you recommend?
128x128chungjh
jdane
183 posts
 
@jdane, by resolution I mean clarity and realism. Like ultra high definition TV vs regular HD TV.
Thanks.  Seems that a number of these terms are being used here simply as variations of "good."   I don't see any clear distinction among them.


pwdmark's avatar
pwdmark
33 posts
 
Maybe, just maybe your excellent amp needs a tune up. The .8 series is 8 or 9 years old, the .5's obviously older. Nelson is as good as they get. I would still have my 250.5 if I had room.
chungjh's avatar
chungjh OP
265 posts
 
I will be receiving Benchmark AHB2 amps in 1-2 weeks and do a comparison with X350.5. I have to say, the X350.5 sound is gorgeous and luscious.
yyzsantabarbara
4,698 posts
 
You will hate the AHB2 if you love the luscious sound of the PASS. You will have more details for sure out of the silent AHB2 but not luscious,
chungjh's avatar
chungjh OP
265 posts
 
@yyzsantabarbara 

Yes, I am aware that Pass and AHB2 at the opposite ends of the spectrum in sound. I do like luscious sound but I also like amps with high detail. I enjoyed listening to my friends Spectral amp, which I am assuming would sound more like AHB2. When I was listening to Louis Armstrong sing, it sound like he was in my listening room. What has your experience with AHB2 been like?
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