McIntosh MC-1.2KW vs PASS XA-160.5 amps ??

I'd go with the Pass, since I own the XA60.5's and love them!

owned both Mc501s and XA60.5s. Pass were more refined, transparent, better stage depth. Mac's had better dynamics & sense of command of the speakers. if i had bigger Pass amps, might have been an easy choice, but as it was, i kept the 501s (my listening bias is 1st and foremost dynamics & control).

tone is equally good b/w both. can listen to both all day, and i can say that about VERY few SS amps.

That is a tough choice given your want of finesse and brute power and only you figure what you want most.

As far as pros and cons:

The 160's are going to draw a steady 600 watts from the wall "each" or around 10 amps total. That plus what else is hooked up in your system, is your room "electrically" up to it? The Mac, considerably less unless you are really cranking it.

The Pass will add some heat to your room. The Mac, hardly any.

For me, I'd choose the Pass. I own the 100.5's and have owned the Mac 1000's and 1201's before. I was always happy with the Mac's but the Pass's make me happier.

TAD used to demo their speakers at shows with Pass amps before they developed their own amps. I own the XA160.5 and couldn't be happier. I'm not familiar with the Mac's.

at this level of performance, think a in room audition is required. sorry!