Pass Labs Int 25 vs Int 60


I'm curious if anyone has had a chance to listen to these two integrated amplifiers.

I know the Int 25 is basically the XA25 with a preamp. The Int 60 runs class A to 30 watts (and uses the same preamp) so maybe it's more closely related to the XA30.8, though I don't believe I've read that anywhere.

Anyway, I think from a power perspective both will be fine with my 90db floorstanders. My main question is which is the warmer, smoother of the two amps? Even if that means being darker and more veiled, I would want to go with that amp!

Thanks.
shahram
Post removed 

Seems this thread is getting cold. I own a INT25, and have a INT60 on loan momentarily from a friendly dealer. The 60 is brand spanking new, and 'burning in' since Friday. So in case anyone is interested, I can post my subjective findings between the glorious 25 and 60 here 😀.

Cheers, Markuzz

Sounds good, Markuzz!

 

I had the Pass INT-30A, and replaced it with the INT-60.  Both are very fine: to my ears the 30 was a snootch more musical, and the the 60 a snootch more revealing.

What tipped me to the 60 is that, unlike some of the experiences reported here with the 25A (and many reports other low watt Pass gear), I had trouble driving speakers with the 30, even efficient ones.

I'll be curious to here the results of your comparison!  Also keen to hear about comparisons of the 60 and 250.

Initial impressions on the differences between the INT25 and INT60:

 

First of all, the INT60 is a beast physically. Large, heavy and present. Also the INT60 is deep, and will not fit all audioracks or furniture. The INT25 is a bit more modest. Especially when you switch off the numeric display. This can be done on both, however the INT60 will always display the blue glow of the round fish tank (even when powered off). Although many enjoy this, it is something Nelson could consider for future amplifiers. It would be nice to be able to switch it off, and go 'stealth'.

 

The connections on the back are a bit more modest as well on the INT25. Obviously the balanced inputs are missing on the INT25, due to the single ended design. But also the speaker terminals are a tad smaller. Nothing to worry about, just an observation. The only ‘complaint’ I have is that the power inlet of the INT25 is close to the handle. Therefore my power cable (with crazy ETI Kryo IEC connector) will slide in the INT25, but on an angle. I enjoy power inlet’s in the centre, it makes cable routing more easy. Why this is different from all other Pass amps on the INT25, is unclear to me.

 

Both amps sport a timeless beauty, fit & finish are exquisite, and the build quality is top notch. They attract the attention of your friends & family (even kids), and demonstrate your enthusiasm towards high-end audio gear. Both pieces are ‘just’ integrated amps, but you get instant respect from fellow audiophiles, even from ones who still believe the only way ‘is to go separate’. The badass-ness of these Pass amplifiers appeal. To everyone.

 

Now when it comes to sound, it's obvious they are racehorses from the same stable. They are bred, fed and trained the same way. Their sound signature is surprisingly similar. Thus, what are the differences in sound? Yes…. Well.... the INT60 needs a few more days of playing as she is still almost new at the writing of this subjective ‘review’.

 

So…. Stay tuned.

 

Cheers, Markuzz.