Pass....Accuphase....or......


Hi Audiogoners!

I need a new power amp to my Verity Audio Parsifal Ovation (18 watts minimum recommended input power / 8 ohm).

Have a Mark Levinson No.532 that keeps broking down and it's getting too expensive to fix in Europe. 

Music: Classical/symphonic and jazz.

Room: 13 x 26

Preamp: Auralic DAC/Pre (but this can change....)

Ideas so far:

Pass Labs XA-25 (hype or really good and powerful enough?)

Accuphase A-48 (too polite?)

If you have a minute....I need ideas in that price range...+/- $$. Thanks!

 

southofdallas

I have the Luxman MQ-88uC power amp. I got it used for about $3000, I changed to nos tubes. If you like a LUSH accurate amp try get one form Mucic Direct and try it out. It's 25 WPC and will easily drive 89 sensitivity . I have used it with Monitor audio, Triangle and KEF speakers. No issues,

@blue-magoo Man!....those Luxman MQ-88uC look good. And they seem to have a direct input that removes the level control from the circuit. Nice! What kind of speakers do you use with them?

I have a room your size, with Vandersteen 2CEs and Pass X150s. I would at least consider the 150 series, new or used. Capacity to drive with most of your listening in Class A. I heard a Cornwall IVs with low-watt tubes and I preferred my setup. 

+++++ Accuphase A48 great if not greatest <50W/ch SS A class amp! advantage: no maintenance needed for few decades! 

+++++ Luxman MQ-88uC lil less peak power headroom than A48, amazing dynamic range, very low noise floor for tubes, very gentle tubes use conditions to ensure long ride without replacing tubes etc.!