2. amps-preamps
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Upgrade bug has hit, interested in Pass Labs Amps

So as I am feeling the upgrade bug, I have been looking into upgrading my amp. Currently I have Bel Canto Ref1000s and I feel that the class D amps are not giving me the quality of sound that I would like to receive, lacking fullness and realistic qualities. So I have been looking into Pass Labs X250 and X250.5 amps, from what I have read these are very good amps and should be a considerable upgrade from my ref1000s???? Also what is the difference in the X250 and the X250.5? Is it worth the extra 1000-1500 that I have seen them for on here?
Also any other SS amps in this price range give or take a few dollars that are recommended?
Thanks
Tim
tmesselt
arbuckle
89 posts
 
I totally disagree about speakers first. Amps can completely change the sound, for example. I was considering changing out my speakers as I was constantly hunting for more and tighter bass among other things in the soundstage. I looked at every speaker under the sun and instead swapped out my amp and couldnt be happier with my sound. The improvements were startling. I liken the amp to the engine in the car. The car may look nice (i.e., speakers), but if the engine (amp) cannot drive it well it is all lost.
soix
9,934 posts
 
Speakers first. They'll make the biggest absolute contribution to the sound you hear in your room so make sure you get them right (obviously electronics are also hugely important to what you ultimately hear, but the differences tend to be smaller in absolute magnitude although are no less important in the end). Go find a pair that really blow you away, then you can always find an amp that will drive them or you could even buy the amp you heard during the demo. Tougher to go the other way in my opinion, but there are valid arguements the other way too.

Best of luck.
tpsonic
1,092 posts
 
The Pass amps are very good.The X series will probably mate better to the paradigms.I believe that if you were to upgrade to one of the others that you mention,it would be worth moving to an XA model.The efficiency and tonal quality will be more revealing.
The area in which you are unsatisfied with is notorious with a "non-preamp" configuration.Using a digital EQ might also remedy your problem,but you have to use good judgement when applying this solution.
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
>>01-10-09: Arbuckle
I totally disagree about speakers first<<

That's a shame because you're dead wrong.

Speakers first followed by an amp that matches them.

It's that simple.
mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
the recording matters more than anything else.

if the recording is done poorly, the speakers will only reproduce a poor recording.

a master analog tape iswith a mediocre stereo system is prefereable to a poor recording with the best components.
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