Pass Labs Int-30a or Naim 282- 250 combo


I have finally decided to move from an all Tube set up to a solid state set up. I am currently using a Thor Pre-amp and Rogue m-150 mono blocks to drive my cremona auditors. Due to both changing tastes and lifestyle I am moving away from tubes.

After auditioning various brands my two favorites in my price range were the Pass Labs Int- 30a using a berkeley alpha dac or I am considering the Naim 282+ 250 with Hi-Cap using the Naim dac. While I had to hear them at two separate dealers, they both sold cremona auditors and had them hooked up with the sub.

I am not sure which direction to go and in some ways these could not be more opposite brands. I am looking for guidance and advice, yet I know that in some ways its got to be emotional and come from some gut instinct.

I am looking for electronics that will accurately play the music that is present without much color. I want to hear what is recorded. Yet at the same time I want to ensure an enjoyable experience.

With the Pass Labs audition I really liked its engaging feeling as well as the soundstage and the presentation. Yet with the Naim I liked how tight the bass control was and how well defined the music was. In some ways I enjoyed the Pass Labs more it was muscial, well controlled, and engaging, yet for some reason I keep on coming back to the Naim, not sure if its because I am supposed to like it or it really left an impression--which was tightness, rhythm, etc.

I am not sure which way to go. I would really appreciate some guidance from all of the experts on AudioGon (I am still relatively new).

jlaz
Both amps you described do have differing sound presentations, Buy the one you enjoyed listening to the most. The so called experts on Audiogon do not have to live with your purchase. Buy the one you liked the most. That being said both are fine amps and will serv you well. I have a Pass Labs X350.5 and an XP 10 pre-amp and I like the musical sound of the Pass amps but had a similar impression on the bass. I solved my bass issuses with a Purist Audio Designs Dominus Ferox filled Power cord with Oyaide ends that I purchased here on Agon. It set me back $850.00 but it gave me the deep fast tight & defined bass I was looking for. I was able to keep the musical sound and get the bass right and that made my system even more musical. Also keep in mind some amps work better with certian speakers. It is all synergy.
Don't disregard whatever feeling the Naim is giving as well as don't get too caught up in the audiophile "affects"; I have heard neither of these pieces, so I favor neither.

I recall back in the 80's I had this little Denon integrated which I replaced with some Heath separates. The Heath cleraly had better detail and clarity but the Denon was far more fun to listen to music to, but I allowed myself to be swayed by the "audiophile" stuff.

Listen to both setups again and it'd be even better if you can get a home trial.
The so called experts on Audiogon do not have to live with your purchase. Buy the one you liked the most.

Great advice.
The so called experts on Audiogon do not have to live with your purchase. Buy the one you liked the most.

That is really wonderful advice. I have to remind myself to buy what I enjoy listening to as opposed to what others say is a great sound. Its my ears, my money, and ultimately, my enjoyment!

How do you like the xp-10 +x350.5?
solved my bass issuses with a Purist Audio Designs Dominus Ferox filled Power cord with Oyaide ends that I purchased here on Agon. It set me back $850.00 but it gave me the deep fast tight & defined bass I was looking for.

I realize this may come across as a stupid question, but how will this help provide the deep, fast, tight, and defined bass?