Pass INT-25 better than Wilsenton R8?


I have recently purchased a Pass Labs INT-25. It replaced a Wilsenton R8 with NOS tubes (EL-34). I feel that the sound im getting from the Pass is not 5000.00 better. Has anyone purchased a INT-25 and not been blown away from the sound? I do think  that the 25 has a wider soundstage.

128x128travisg

considering amps a vs b ... which better or worse....  always always depends on the situation, associated gear, listener taste

that been said. i would say 8 or 9 of 10 experienced audiophiles and music lovers asked to choose between the 2 would choose the pass unit - it is not a tubed unit but the build quality, pedigree of the designer and company behind the product, and outright sound quality would be superior in most circumstances

@travisg If it is a brand new INT-25, and you do not have 200hrs on it yet, give it time and see if anything changes. I know this is the case with the amps up to ~300hrs.  I'm not as familiar what occurs on integrated units, others may chime in here to validate burn-in / break-in for you. Transformers, caps, and more, let it play.    

@travisg, As suggested above, your Pass INT-25 integrated amplifier needs ADDITIONAL break-in time before you can judge its sound quality.  I suggest you contact your retailer, or PASS LABS, to find out the number of hours required for break-in.  

Both amps have different sonic profiles. I am not surprised enjoyed the tube presentation more than solid state even though it is a renowned brand. If the pass is not broken in then you may wish to reconsider.

Yes, make sure you have at least two or three hundred hours on it before deciding.

 

Also, yes, tube and solid state will have different character. Over the last 50 years I have slowly moved to all tube equipment. If you are not thrilled by the time your unit is broken in I would look at a Audion Research Vsi75. Spectacular sounding unit… detailed but beautiful midrange bloom and bass. 
 

I have owned high end Pass for nearly 40 years… including a preamp. while I love his excellent equipment I found the preamps a bit too sterile.