Pass Integrated to Pass separates

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!

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.

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.

First I owned the XA100.5. I sold them because I needed the money. After this I bought the XA60.5. I wanted to review and test them. I already had a client for them. I also bought a XA30.5 because I could get it for a very low price. I loved this amp for the price you have to pay for it. I was surprised about the sound quality for the money. But also the control and drive was surprisingly good.

Less than one and a half year year ago I bought the X250.5. I was just curious what the X.5 series does compared to the XA series. I thought I would much prefer the XA series.

But..... I was surprised after I received the Purist Audio Limited edition powercable that I prefer the X.5 series. This has to do with timing, I love the extra speed. It is different in the high freq. as well. It is more on the edge in the high freq. Like there is more resolution.

How I use it, the X series work better than the XA series. I have the plans to buy a X350.8 amp. For a few reasons, I only need one powercable. I also have the plans to buy one 25th Ann Purist Audio powercable. I Always focus on the end options and results it gives. The X350.8 has 72 caps just like all best amps Pass Labs has. I want speed and control. It has enough class A for me. Even with the XA250.5 I play for over 95% in class A.

I prefer the extra speed and better timing and the extra resolution over a more musical mid freq of the XA series. But on the other hand I could life with the XA series without hesitation!

I love Pass because it gives me the wide and deep stage I want. On the other hand I love the focus it can give on the sound of an instrument. Realism in sound is everything for me. I also love the speed and drive.

I have done a few email about asking questions about the new .8 series. I think they will give me the extra parts I am looking for.