2. amps-preamps
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Threshold SA/3 to Pass Labs X250 comparison?

Anyone done a head-to head comparison of Threshold SA/3 to Pass Labs x250 or owned or auditioned both amps? I've owned a Threshold SA/3 for many years and am considering an upgrade to the Pass Labs X250 -- assuming it is an upgrade. I like the SA/3 but want a bigger, deeper, more transparent soundstage -- within my budget. I understand the x250 is more musical than the 350, is a big move up from the 150, and I just can't afford the .5 series.

Thanks for your feedback!

The rest of my system is:
Resolution Audio Opus 21 CD DAC/Transport (running direct to amp)
Mirage M3's (bi-wired)
Cardis Cables and interconnects
audio_not_fishin
teajay
1,691 posts
 
Audio not fishin, I still use a pair of classic Threshold SA-1 monoblocks with a Pass LabsX-350.5 to bi-amp my MG-20r's. I can assure you that what you are looking for sonicly, as stated in your post, would be delivered by a Pass LabsX-250. In the first generation X-series the best sounding amps were the 250 single chassis and the 600 mono-blocks. The new X.5 series are wonderful sounding, a step above the first generation, but if its not in your budget, don't worry about it because a 250 well bring your whole system to another level. Hope this helps.
bigkidz
3,381 posts
 
Teajay is correct. The X-250 is one of the best amps for the used prices (since the .5 was developed, the X-250 prices have dropped even more) You can buy a used X-250 and resell it for what you bought it for. It works great with tube and SS preamps, has deep, dynamic powerful bass, the mids are as good as SS gets. Good details and soundstage.

Happy Listening.
audio_not_fishin OP
3 posts
 
Thanks for the feedback, Teajay and Bigkidz. I appreciate your input. Aside from sound, if the X250 lasts as well as my SA/3 has, I'll have many, many years of listening enjoyment!
page12
5 posts
 
Audio not fishn, thank you for posting this question, I am in exactly the same situation, (same boat?). I am also going to move up to the X250. I have an SA/3 & Dynaudio Contour S3.4 speakers. Although the SA/3 sounds very beautiful I am looking forward to the extra slam, jump factor, and detail the X250 will give. The reviews I have read talk of the X250 being a little too detailed, but giving up a little richness is a fact of life when going from Class A to a Class A/B design.
Please post your thoughts on the X250 when you place it in your system.
audio_not_fishin OP
3 posts
 
Thanks Page 12. It may be a little while yet, but I'll post my impression of the move up after it happens.
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