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Pass Integrated to Pass separates

Hello - I'm considering upgrading my pass int-150 to xp-10 and XA.60.5's (maybe even 100's). The problem I'm facing is my source components aren't the best. I have a vpi scout 2 and a ps audio phone pre, although (this is embarrassing) most of the music I listen to is through sonos. I'm wondering if this upgrade might be pointless and I should instead upgrade my source components first (cd/dac and phono).

One thought I had was to do the upgrade as planned and get an oppo 105 to hold me over until I'm ready for a big boy digital source. The truth in all of this is I'll probably continue to primarily listen through sonos (sorry I love it). What I'm really after is just more of the pass sound, I can't get enough, it's intoxicating. Just wondering if some better quality sources would be more appropriate and I'll get more satisfaction from them alternatively to the pass separates.

I appreciate any advice from the community.

Thanks!
skyflyer04
bo1972's avatar
bo1972
2,789 posts
 
When you have a 93 db speaker, and you don't want to spend much money. The XA30.5 will be more than ehough. I loved the amp for the money. I never heard this level for this price.
bo1972's avatar
bo1972
2,789 posts
 
The difference in control, drive, resolution between the XA60.5 and 100.5 were big. That is why my personal favorites are the XA30.5 and 100.5.
mtrot
804 posts
 
Here's another question for you with Pass experience. With the X series amps, Pass says they operate in class A up to a certain level of wattage output, say, for example, 10 watts, while the XA30.5 is rated for 30 watts class A.

So, for someone with 93dB speakers like me, and who listens at soft to moderate sound levels, BOTH amps should be operating in class A, right? But from user observations and comments, one would conclude that the XA30.5 still sounds better. Is there a difference between the class A operation of the XA30.5 and the X150.5 AT 5 to 10 watts output? It is important to know this, because those two amps are available around the same price!
timlub
2,039 posts
 
Hi Skyflyer04,
I would recommend that you look at your desires very closely... If you are after the "PASS SOUND" You have it... If you are after more refinement within that sound, by all means, stepping up in Pass will help meet your desires... However, I have no doubt that improving your source will make more overall difference in your system than changing from you Pass Integrated to Pass separates.
The Oppo is a good path, it offers disc plus the ability to use it as a DAC.
unsound
7,327 posts
 
Remember, when power demands increase they do so exponentially. Sometimes it comes down more to what kind of music you listen to, than where the volume knob is set at.
As the volume increases the benefits of Class A can begin to diminish. While some might prefer to listen to compressed dynamics that fall short of the live experience to enjoy the luxury of some greater time in Class A, others are willing to sacrifice some time of the suaveness of Class A to have more life like dynamics without the anxiety of impending distortion.
Of course there are also other considerations too.
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