Pass Labs AMP’s- What is the best Pass Amp Sound for You from past 10 years


So I have an XA-25 and its outstanding. I’ve tested the XA60.8 mono’s and there was not enough difference to move to them; no jaw dropping moments. Don’t get me wrong they were fantastic, but so is the XA25. Looking at the 350.8 or 250.8, etc.... even in comparison the Integrated INT-250... If you love it; want to explain what you like and why? I’m wondering what others are thinking... 
My set up: Wilson Sophia II’s, XA-25, Pass Labs XP-22 pre, Merging+NADAC. 
jahatl513

Showing 3 responses by douglas_schroeder

jahatl513, yes, but the 25 doesn't have balanced inputs. That is a serious drawback to me as a reviewer. I build lots of systems with XLR, and that would cut out half of them. 

That may have been a tactical move on the part of Pass labs. If they were to stuff them with XLR then the unit might cut into the big boy amps in terms of sales. A company has to manage its products, and I respect that. Or, they might march the changes up the line and add XLR to follow on the lower model. 

I am currently running a pair of J2's as monos; only using 1 channel for each, and doubling up the speaker cable to the PureAudioProject Trio15 Horn 1 Speaker (reviewed). It's impressive to say the least, especially with a pair of Legacy Audio XTREME XD Subwoofers. Total of 8 15" woofers and horn system. When I apply my Schroeder Method of Interconnect Placement it becomes a completely different ball game.  

Pass/First Watt products are pretty easy to make sound respectable, and have good potential to be stunning. 
jahatl513, I believe I go into the use of one channel on each amp in the review of the First Watt J2 I wrote for dagogo.com