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Pass XA versus Krell FPB Amps

I wonder if anyone has had the pleasure of hearing these two style amps and what comparisons can be drawn? I have heard the XA30.5 and absolutely loved it. The only problem was that it was not able to drive speakers that need a lot more power.....

I have heard the Krells many years ago and absolutely loved their iron fisted bass, but cannot remember their midrange texture. The question is, do the Krell Class A amps come anywhere close to the Pass XA amps in terms of the midrange texture, detail, body, musicality and organic feel? With the XA series I feel like I can actually hear more textures, tones and flavors in the sound than any other amp I have heard. Is this a hallmark of Class A amps and would the Krells provide this with just more power so I can use any speaker? Thanks all
acurus
unsound
7,332 posts
 
The Pass XA amps will work better with higher impedance loads, the Krell FPB amps will work better with lower impedance loads. These amps might sound very different depending on the speakers with which they'll be used with.
paulficarella
43 posts
 
I have heard both and both are excellent choices you cant go wrong one way or the other. I prefer pass x350.5 or fbp 300.
good luck.
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,320 posts
 
So let me get this straight...Richard Vandersteen does not like Pass amps. Does this mean that Pass amps are crap?

In my opinion:
1 - if you have a room that is treated acoustically a bit too much
and/or
2 - you have laid back, relaxed sounding speakers with bass on the softer side, go with Krell.

For example, I always found Sonus Faber speakers to sound great with Krell amps.

If you have speakers that do not need anymore emphasis on the lower end and in the treble, then Pass will suit those better than Krell.

Krell and Pass are excellent amps with excellent resolution and control. The end result will depend on what speakers and room the amps are used with and what YOU wish your system to sound like. You have to match the components and create synergy.
Trial and error is the only way and only you will know which amp is better for you once it is in your system and you are listening to it.
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