2. amps-preamps
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Pass Int-150 or Int-30A for PMC Speakers?

I have listened to PMC speakers (GB1i, FB1i, OB1i) with various integrated (Bryston B100&135, Simaudio 340i, Krell s300i, NAD M3) and was not closed to being satisfied. So I have decided to splurge a little to get Pass Labs integrated. Has anyone tried Int-150/30A or their amp version (x150.5/XA30.5) with PMC FB1i? What's each combination like?

Seems like many people match OB1i with Int-150 but am curious to hear what PMCs sound like with the Pass Labs Class A setup...

I will be using NAD M51 as DAC.
fiddleronroof
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Fiddler,
Sounds like the right choice,you were clearly moved and connected to your music.What`s better than that?
Regards,
fiddleronroof OP
18 posts
 
Hi Charles,

Yes, I thoroughly enjoy the electrocompaniet... But I must also admit I miss the Pass XA. The Electrocompaniet gave me a big soundstage and puts me at the 5th roll of the concert hall. The Pass XA puts me on the conductor podium. Its soundstage is even bigger and the instruments almost feel lie they are situated around me. That intimacy is quite amazing. I just wish the tone is warmer and rounder, like the tubes... Ahhh! So I haven't completely given up on Pass yet...

Does anyone use pass XA amp with tube preamp or a very warm solid state preamp?
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Fiddler I appreciate your dilemma as no component is perfect and tradeoffs are always present.Which amplifier do you believe would keep you happier with frequent use long term?
Regards,
fiddleronroof OP
18 posts
 
Ooo... That's a tricky one! Realistic speaking, it will probably be the Electrocompaniet integrated ($5500, or $6000 with DAC) because the tone is smoother and much comfortable to the ears... Plus, to reproduce the Pass system effect I heard, it would most likely take more than the Pass integrated amp ($7150) since I heard heard it on the XP20 preamp and XA100.5 through a Berkeley Alpha DAC. That's a $30,000 worth of electronics... Musically wise and money wise, the Electrocompaniet wins...

I just got my PMC FB1i today... I hope to get the Electrocompaniet gear soon. Would love to share my experience with other Classical music lovers on here. I hope there are many more music fans out there who enjoys the musical experience of a system rather than the neutrality of the electronics...
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Fiddler,
Congratulations on your new additions, I think you made the right call.Exceptional musicality and emotional involvement are more valuable(to me) than hifi qualities if a choice has to be made.I want components that involves and connects me to music rather than analyze and observe it.I don`t believe you`ll have any regrets or 2nd thoughts.
Regards
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