2. amps-preamps
  3. 173534-16015

Amplfiers that Sound like Pass 30.8 that are not so heavy

I am moving  to a smaller house and I really need a amp that is not as heavy as the Pass 30.8. Currently it is hooked up to a pair of QLN Prestige 3's with Adrenaline Speaker cables, a SAS 11A preamp recently modified and upgraded and fed by a Pagoda DAC.  I love the sound of this amp with a the tube preamp. But....its just really to heavy for me to move around by myself. And yes I do go to the gym. Also it does put out some heat which is not the coolest thing in Florida. Any ideas on an amp that would be a good substitute for the 30.8's would really be appreciated.  My listening prefernces lean toward transparency and holographic instrument presentation. Thank all of you for your help and direction on my question. Best wishes to all for a healthy, safe and peaceful New Year.

char1

Showing 1 response by ben77059

ben77059
29 posts
 

I owned a pair of Pass XA-100.5 amps and went to a 30.8 because of the heat. I have a smallish room and the Pass amps are like space heaters. Something I don't need in Texas in the summer. I went through a plethora of amps including several McIntosh (heavy),  Classe (not heavy), Cary, Krell (not as heavy or as hot as Pass and sound like Pass), Bryston and a few others.

In my opinion, the Bryston (4Bsst2) is the best bang for the buck. It sounds as good as the Pass, doesn't get hot and only weighs 50 pounds - almost 40 lbs less than the 30.8. Highly recommended. From what I have read, the 4Bsst3 sounds even more like the Pass.

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