Pass Labs xa - .5 amps

In the example above we are talking like a maximum of 4 db difference this is not dissimilar from what some people might do with a tone control to adjust for room acoustics and preferences.

I found a good explanation here

Please note that if you have a speaker with a fairly flat frequency response (varies between 6 to 12 ohms) then differences in presentation from a low output impedance amp versus a higher output impedance amp will become considerably less.

It is not that a particular amp is right or wrong or a particular speaker is right or wrong => it is just important to consider the two (depending on your amp you might steer clear of certain speakers or depending on your speaker you might steer clear of certain amps. It is all about synergy.

fairly flat frequency response

Sorry my bad - I meant fairly flat impedance response.

I could definitely see where a Pass amp could take care of any perceived brightness....they certainly are market savvy.

06-04-09: Chashas1
I could definitely see where a Pass amp could take care of any perceived brightness....they certainly are market savvy.

Huh?

If you read my posts, you will see the brightness was corrected due to the Pass XA-.5 amp doubling power as impedance is halved, thus producing more equal decibels across the frequency spectrum even though the impedance varies.

It has to do with the mids and bass being produced at volumes equal to the highs. If the highs are produced at volumes greater than the mids and/or bass, then the perceived result is "brightness". Many amps that double power as impedance is halved will have the same effect on the Sonata III speakers, or on any other speakers with significant variations in impedance. Belles amps are an example that worked well in my system. Many people hear brightness in their speakers, and immediately look to replace the speakers as if it's the speaker's fault, when in fact it's the fault of an improper amp/speaker match.

It has absolutely nothing to do with market savvy.

I could definately see where a Pass amp could take care of any perceived brightness......they certainly are market savvy.

Chashas1, what do you mean by this comment? Have you noticed a particular characteristic of the XA.5 line? Or are you referring to Nelson Pass' marketing efforts? Thanks.