MSB M202 compared to Pass XA.5

A chap in London Changed from Pass Labs XA30.5 to MSB M202's. His was using them to drive JBL Everest

I have not heard another solid state amp that has the depth, tonality, linearity, and effortlessness of the XA.5. Many other amps sound flat, thin, brittle, restrained.

If an amp highlights an instrument in an unnatural manner, some people might mistake that for detail and accuracy.

Personally, I find the term neutrality to be a buzz word that has no meaning. Reviewers and manufacturers love to use it. When I sit in front of my system, the word neutral never comes to mind.

When I sit in front of my system, the word neutral never comes to mind.

Rtn1, I gotta agree with that. I would catagorize my Clayton M300's (fully class A at 300 wpc) as "neutral" compared to the Lamm M1.1's I have owned, but certainly not "clinically neutral" as they also convey the smoothness, body and touch of warmth that Class A amps are known for when compared with many A/B SS amps. They were good before, but with the latest power supply upgrade these M300's are all I need. Out of curiosity I would like to hear the MSB monos since a dealer in my state told me they were outstanding.

That's funny, Rtn1.

"You have to go see that movie, it's neutral."

"It's the best restaurant in town, completely neutral."

"I think I'm in love, she's so neutral."

FWIW, I'd characterize my Pass INT-30A as warmish, compared to the A/AB it replaced. I think of that as a very good thing.

John

Mitch, herein lies the problem. Every-other-day, there is a reviewer or dealer touting some break-through product. These typically feature a designer with several decades experience in the aeronautical/space/defense industry, with translation of a very special material of mystical properties. First they try to convince us of the designers scrupples and higher moral standing, in addition to their ingenuity for setting new standards in quality, craftsmanship, and value. Then they say the entire listening experience has been redefined - more real than what they reviewed last month. Blah...blah...blah.