Pass Int-150 or Int-30A for PMC Speakers?

Just to update, I have had a chance to home-demo a Hegel H200 integrated in my rig for about 3 days. The unit is well broken-in and the gentleman who loaned me the unit has been using it. I didn't start the evaluation until it was in my rig for at least 20 hours playing music constantly.

It went up against my Pass combo (XA30.5 + XP-10) and I must say Pass combo wins with ease. This is expected given their MSRP price differences. But I was impressed enough with H200 that if you're looking for an integrated in sub $4-5k range, H200 is a must audition. It sounded quite nice, but just not at Pass separates level.

I might also audition H300 (many people say H300 is at another level than H200), hopefully in the next a couple of months.

Kzhtoo, How would you describe the sonic difference between your Pass combo and the Hegel?

To my surprise, they sound very similar. Pass combo is just more refined and has a calmer, sweeter presentation.

I would think the H300 would be a better comparison and if the 200 is that good perhaps the 300 is worth considering. Also looking closer into the Boulder 865 integrated. I really would rather find an acceptable integrated instead of sticking 100 lb mono-blocs (xa100.5's) next to my speakers.

To Dongr I previously had a Cary SLI-80F1 and then a home audition of a Pass INT-30.

Chuck

Yes, H300 is definitely worth a look for anyone who's looking for one box solution. H300 even has a built-in dac btw, unlike H200. With Hegel claiming H300 was built from the ground up and not from H200, I'm not sure what to expect of it. To me, H300 has to be at least on par with my Pass combo for me to switch. A little less and not sure if I could live with it long term. I feel what I currently have is the absolute minimum.

Chuck, Boulder 865 looks very interesting. I will look into it too. I do need HT bypass and a set of pre-outs to drive the sub.