2. amps-preamps
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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
fredorama OP
46 posts
 
Grant (Tvad) I always appreciate your thoughtful and on-point responses. Soundhouse, I appreciate your experience withthe older Moscode amps and your comments as well. I decided on an ARC 100.2, which saved me about $800, and fit into my equipment rack. It sounds very very nice on some recordings, but not so special on others. Like some days it makes my jaw drop and others, well, it sounds good, but not jaw-dropping. Maybe Im nuts, but the sound seems inconsistent. Is this possible? I thought amps basically either worked or didn't work.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
The ARC 100.2 is likely revealing the differences in the recordings, which any good amp or component is supposed to do.
bondmanp
1,465 posts
 
Also, much has been made about fluctuations in the quality of electrical power from day-to-day and even hour-to-hour. Perhaps the ARC is more sensitive to this than other designs? Maybe auditioning something like the PS Audio Power Plant is in order. Just an idea.
fredorama OP
46 posts
 
Bondmap, that's a great suggestion! I was considering something like that. But now I will pursue it more earnestly!
tvad
9,467 posts
 
Before you invest more dollars into components other than an amp, why not measure your voltage at the outlets with an inexpensive multimeter to learn if in fact you are experiencing voltage swings.

Do you have all your components plugged into the same outlet? If not, try it. Use a simple household power strip if necessary.
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