Krell FPB 400CX vs PASS LABS X-350.5

I talked with a very reputable Pass Labs dealer and he mentioned that the XA-60.5 would be a different sound than the X-350.5 He said it would be warmer, and more tube sounding but the X-350.5 would have much more control and bass slam (he doesn't have any X-350.5's now, and isn't trying to push me one way or the other). I listen to mostly rock and roll, and complex sounding music at moderate to higher volumes. The XA-60.5's would probably do it with the Nines and be the best choice, but Pass agree's that I may want t a little more power than that - considering my taste. I actually started thinking the XA-30.5 would be the sweetest, but it wouldn't have enough UMPH for me. Pass warned me of this. I was thinking the XA-60.5 would do it, but have started to rethink that I should go with the XA-100.5's. I know these would smoke the X-350.5 but are much less expensive than the XA-60.5 or the XA-100.5's

Do you guys think the XA-60.5 would be more than enough?? Keep in mind, I hope to move up to the DeVore Fidelity Silverbacks someday.....(part of the reason for wanting a amp plenty big enough, and essentially all class A)

TVAD I went on a tube quest for about 10 years, and had dozens of very expensive tubes, and was rolling them all the time. I decided to make the change back to solid state a few years ago and have never looked back. I do aggree that they sound like nothing else, but for me the ease of SS is very appealing. I am in love with the Pass X and XA amps/preamps. Thanks for all your help. I will let you know what I decide to do. I'm going to try and get both the X-350.5 and the XA-60.5 in my home together at the same time to properly compare.

I agree with Tvad, and tend to lean heavily towards quality vs. quantity when it comes to amps and audio gear in general. The Nines & the Silverbacks are quite efficient, and should match well with the XA-60.5, even with your musical tastes. Would be interested to hear John DeVore's thoughts / preferences between the two amp in question.

>>05-17-09: Roor
I talked with a very reputable Pass Labs dealer and he mentioned that the XA-60.5 would be a different sound than the X-350.5 He said it would be warmer, and more tube sounding but the X-350.5 would have much more control and bass slam<<

He's correct on the different sonics but way off on the control and bass slam. I recommend he listen to them side by side.

Dealer disclaimer

According to the latest stereophile measurement XA-30.5 clips (1% THD) at around 100W. XA-30.5 or XA-60.5 may be just fine for your use. FWIW I use First Watt F5 at 25Wpc with my Focal Electras in 15 x 20 room, and I have never felt I needed more power.