2. amps-preamps
  3. 1389369075

Amp suggestions

Hiya,

I'm thinking about upgrading my Parasound A21 amp. I'm driving PSB 4 ohm speakers and my rig is set up for 90% vinyl, 10% digital. Units I've considered in the $5-6000 dollar price range include:

McIntosh MC302

Bryston 4B-SST2

Pass Labs XA30.5

I don't play at very loud levels, but the 30WPC of the Pass concerns me a little especially given the 90 percent vinyl.

Any other brands and input greatly appreciated!
mjm1124
Post removed 
czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,699 posts
 
I would think given your budget you could get a pair of Pass XA60.5's used. Great Amps with outstanding reviews.

Chuck
lak's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
lak
3,516 posts
 
My friend has an XA30.5 listed here on Audiogon at a very reasonable price. I've heard the amp and it's sweet and in excellent condition. I think it would be a good way to go unless you want to spend additional money in which case I'd follow Czbbel's advice.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
3,018 posts
 
What model of PSB? We should check the impedance curve of the speakers; in the case of the Synchrony One, impedance can drop as low as 2 ohms.

BTW, the Pass XA30.5 doubles down to 60 wpc at 4 ohms.
I'll bet the Pass would sound awesome with PSBs and should have no trouble driving them.
soix
2,133 posts
 
Man, you've got lots of great options at that price level. Here are some other good ones that are for sale here now and are in or below your price range:

Plinius SA103
Hegel H20
Gamut D200i
McCormack DNA500

Of course there's also the Parasound JC2 if you like your current amp. You really need to tell us what aspects of performance you're looking to improve and which are most important to you to get more specific and useful recommendations. These are all great amps listed here, so especially at this level it largely comes down to personal preferences. Best of luck.
More to discover