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Coda 16 vs. Pass Labs xa60.8

Hi All -

I am seriously considering purchasing a class A solid state power amp for my main system. I currently have a 100 watt Audio Hungary power tube amplifier, which I’ve been happy with, but feel it’s not quite powerful enough for larger living, dining, kitchen area which is a bigger space. I posted dimensions on another thread which I think were inaccurate, but it’s a large modern space with very high ceilings.

Why am I interested in making the change?

In my office, I have a Luxman 590axii, driving Buchardt S400 mkii speakers with a Gold Note DS-10 streamer/dac. The overall sound signature is warm with a lot of body. It’s not terribly detailed, but I enjoy the full bodied nature of the sound.

As for my main system, I have a Innuous Zenith, Merason DAC1, Linear Tube Audio Microzotl preamp, Audio Hungary/Qualiton 100 watt tube power amp, and QLN Prestige Three speakers. As some of you might remember, I sought your advice when I was looking for “warm, laid back” speakers. This system is airy, detailed, and holographic. I love the LTA preamp (what a work of art) and QLN Prestige 3 speakers (they are balanced and wonderful). As for the Audio Hungary tube amp, I like it a ton, but I’m sensing I could use a little more power to drive my speakers. While I truly enjoy this system a ton, the overall sonic signature is a little lean sounding at times. Part of me is craving a bit more bass grip and meat-on-the bones. 

After reading way too many reviews and forum feedback, I’ve shortlisted the coda 16 and Pass Labs xa60.8 mono-blocks as finalists. I’d welcome any feedback from those who have either owned and/or heard these two amps. Specifically, I’m trying to understand what the differences are in terms of sonic signatures between the two might be. As I’m looking for warmth, the Pass amps seem - based on what I’ve heard - the better fit. That said, I’ve also read many extol the virtues of the Coda 16 compared to the Pass amps. I’m also attracted to having one single heavy amp versus two. One single unit is also easier for me to sell to my wife… I’m sure some of you are familiar with these sorts of conversations…

Looking forward to your feedback and advice.

 

 

128x128bluethinker
bluethinker's avatar
bluethinker OP
178 posts
 

@laaudionut - Thanks for your reply! 
 

I read somewhere that the coda 16 might be “too transparent.” I did a home demo with the Luxman 509, which is a class AB amp. I really didn’t like it, because it was sounded cold, analytical and harsh to me. My wife felt the same and asked me to turn down the music after two minutes - max. I came away feeling fatigued and irritated. 
 

When I added the Linear Tube Audio Microzotl preamp to my set up a few months back I was immediately struck by the clarity and openness of the sound. I realized how much I’d been missing with my previous tube amp. To its credit, the LTA preamp still has a tube tone, so things are softened around the edges instead of being “in your face.” 
 

It sounds like you are saying that the Coda 16 has the sonic signature I’m seeking - “detailed, but almost tube like in those details” but with solid state grunt. Is that fair to say LA Audio Nut? 

 

Also, it sounds like the “tube bloom” you ascribe to the Coda 16 provides a fullness to the sound that eclipses the vaunted warmth of the PassLabs xa60.8? 

 

laaudionut
263 posts
 

You are assessing my(vague) comments correctly. With the Coda, there is no over analytical sound quality that would lead to listening fatigue. The details are there, but with richness that never sounds muddled. The tube bloom I mention is reference to the dimensionality...big and airy! The 100 watts of pure class A will drive most speakers with ease with a bottom end to spare. It gets warm, but not to the point of being a space heater where you would not consider using it in the Summer months. It is s pretty special amp and Doug at Coda is great to work with.

 

Best wishes for success in your decision making process.

riie
219 posts
 

I would go with the vs. one

laaudionut
263 posts
 

Well said!

markusthenaimnut's avatar
markusthenaimnut
371 posts
 

I owned an innersound electrostatic amplifier which is similar in design to the Coda amplifiers. It was superb. 

However, I suggest you check to see how loud you are typically listening, and, by extension, how much power you are using. You might be surprised. I know I was. I am almost always below 1 watt, even with my Quad 2805s. 

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