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Moscode 401HR vs Pass Labs X150.5

So...for those that followed my previous thread, I am still in the hunt for the best amp under $2500 (after auditioning and returning a set of mono amps). I really have not been able to find much on the differences between these two amps sonically. I know the Pass has better resale value, but that's not my primary concern, although it is a concern for sure. The Moscode is rated at 200w into 8ohms (300 into 4ohms), the Pass at 150w (also 300w into 4 ohms I believe). I also know that Moscode improved upon the 401HR with the 402AU. Anyway, my tastes are bluesy rock, female vocalists and jazz. My system is as follows

AIFF lossless => Peachtree Nova USB DAC/Preamp => ??AMP?? => Dynaudio Contour S3.4 spkrs (4ohm load, 88db)

If anybody out there can offer comments as to how these two amps compare (or don't!) I would appreciate it. Thanks
fredorama
thesoundhouse
247 posts
 
I sure they are better today. They are still a Hafler designed output stage with a really good tube buffer or input stage. Look at how much stuff is tucked inside both the newer and older Moscodes. The caps are tucked sideways because of the tight real estate. Heat on amplifiers causes problems over time. I sure you are right they are more reliable today than from 12 years ago. Here is a link to a pic of a newer moscode amps. http://blog.stereophile.com/ces2009/moscode-450.jpg.
almarg's avatar
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almarg
8,673 posts
 
The Infinity Kappa 8's were commonly referred to as "amp killers," although not quite to the same extent as the even more notorious Kappa 9's.

If you don't mind looking at a Julian Hirsch review, on the second of the pages linked to below see the lower part of the middle column, and the top of the third column, for a description of its outlandish impedance characteristics:

http://www.infinity-classics.de/infinity/models/Kappa-series-1987/Kappa-8-8A/Kappa_8_review_01.jpg

http://www.infinity-classics.de/infinity/models/Kappa-series-1987/Kappa-8-8A/Kappa_8_review_02.jpg

Regards,
-- Al
tvad
9,467 posts
 
Almarg, how do Infinity Kappa 8's relate to this thread? The OP owns Dynaudio Contour S3.4 (4 ohms, 88dB).
tvad
9,467 posts
 
Almarg, how do Infinity Kappa 8's relate to this thread? The OP owns Dynaudio Contour S3.4 (4 ohms, 88dB).
Tvad (Threads | Answers)
Nevermind...I see Thesoundhouse owned Kappa 8 speakers back when he owned early Moscode amps.
rleff
1,065 posts
 
Any interest in the roland model 2 and 3's that are for sale;I have model 6 mono's and they drive my soundlab m2's and usher rw729 extremely well and have the tube like sound as well.
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