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Solid State to replace Audio Research REF110?

Hello,

My power amp REF110 blew resistors and damage PCB (it is the second time), in the pass my VT100 MKIII also damage the PCB had to replace it.
I like REF110 sound but I think I should move to a more reliable solid state power amp.

Which power amplifier do you recommend to substitute Audio Research REF110 without have to regret every day?

Many thanks for the advice.
jglpubli
jglpubli OP
12 posts
 
Pass Labs XA30.5 has also very good reviews. I do not know if enough power for 90db 4ohm Proac D38.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,399 posts
 
Ayre - great sound, great customer support
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,239 posts
 
I suspect the Pass Labs XA30.5 Would be a good match with the 90 db sensitive Proac Speaker. It's 4 ohm nomlnal load shouldn't be a problem for this highly regarded SS amplifier. I don't believe that the Proac is considered to be a hard/difficult load and in fact many drive them successfully with tube amplifiers.
Charles,
mikewerner
119 posts
 
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Djcxx, that was my experience also.
Tubes are a hassle!
They sound good, but I'm now happy with solid state now and have not looked back.
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jglpubli OP
12 posts
 
I found a Pass Labs XA30.5 in the second hand market and bought it. After some setup with cabling I find it sounds really well, mid bass is characteristic of solid state, it remembers me the AR 100.2 I had some years ago. Mids are very good, maybe not as good as REF110, and highs are very clear without sounding hash or analitical at any time. Soundstage is terrifing, I would say in the same league than REF110.
I have to listen it and take conclusions if it is enought satisfactory to replace the REF110. Both amplifiers sound different but enjoyable, I think.

My other doubth is if a Pass Labs XP-10 preamp could sound better than my AR REF 3 with the XA30.5. Maybe I will open another post.

Many thanks for posting and give advice.
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