2. amps-preamps
  3. 1399826795

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
 
The difference in sound, control and resolution.

I owned the XA30.5, 60.5 and 100.5. I loved the 30.5
for the money. The difference between the 30.5 and 60.5 is smaller than the difference between the 60.5 and 100.5.

I had the integrated to test for 2 months. I did not found it convincing like other Pass amps to be honest.
hasse
230 posts
 
Anyone seen a review of the new Point 8 series? I am curious how the XA 100.8 compares to the 100.5
bo1972's avatar
bo1972
2,789 posts
 
There is a tread about the .8 series here at Audiogon.

http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?aamps&1393354920&openmine&zzBo1972&4&5#Bo1972

I asked Pass Labs about reviews of the .8 series about 5 weeks ago. They said; not in short time.
skyflyer04 OP
12 posts
 
My X250.5 will be here on Friday and I'm already having second thoughts. Everything I read says that the XA's are better at any power rating period. Is there anyone that has an X.5 and prefers it over the XA.5's?

I have a demo period so I can always exchange if I don't care for the sound... I'm just thinking that I compromised to get more of what I already have instead of something truly better.

Any feedback is greatly appreciated! I have a lot of money on the line here and want to ensure I'm not missing out by saving a few dollars!
bo1972's avatar
bo1972
2,789 posts
 
If you go back in my answers you wil find my thoughts about it.

The Purist Audio Limited Edition 2013 version had a very big positive influence on the X250.5.

I owned the XA30.5, 60.5 and 100.5 and thought I would prefer the XA series over the X series.

But......how I use it the X.5 series has some advantages over the XA series. This is faster response, more drive and more spatial in the high freq. You need a high quality cable to maintain the involment in the mid freq and the authority in the high freq. A cheaper powercable will give you a clear disadvantage in the mid freq. and high freq. This is why many people prefer the XA series over the X series. I had the same thoughts. But by testing my thoughts changed. I had these discussions with Pass Labs.

The Purist brings new parts which are not there compared to a basic power cable.

I will go this year for the X350.8 instead the XA100.8.

By using the Purist it is like you double the quality in endresult. You have to try it to believe it.

Powercables have a huge influence on poweramps and sources as well.
More to discover