I own an original S350e. Pretty much all Threshold amps are great sounding especially the S and SA series, last of the Nelson Pass designs. I would assume that the new Chinese reissue of the S350e should sound as good as the originals if the same parts are used, the only issue may be possibly one of quality control and reliability. The original designs were built like tanks and designed to last a lifetime. That being said though there are some pretty decent designs comming out of China these days. As far as comparing the Threshold sound to Pass Labs I haven't had the oportunity to listen to as many Pass Lab amps as I have Threshold as there is no Pass dealer in my area. I will say though that even though the Pass amps may be newer much more expensive designs, the older Threshold designs can hold their own quite well against the Pass designs OR most any of the newer designs of any other manufacture. I'm sure we can all agree on one thing though, Nelson Pass has got to be one of the top few great amp designers.