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 4 responses by jjss49

jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 

+1 on agd if you want pass labs level of sound, and much less weight

jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 

Not to be to critical but once you get your system set up at the new location are you not done moving or handling the amp?

some of us may want/need to change up the gear, thus need to move pieces from now and then

not to mention a 75-80 lb amp, even unpacked and moved just a few times, can do plenty of harm to an otherwise aging and fragile body/back (ask me how i know 😅

jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 

If the much lighter class D can replace the heavy weight amplifier , it is really good things for audiophile. I just wondering how such good things come true?

it is called technological innovation and advancement - the agd’s are truly a huge step forward

and, i agree, the hegel h20 is a truly excellent amp, absolutely in the same class as the pass units

jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 

just summarizing a bit for op - with units worth considering imo (sound quality all on par, and outstanding, just somewhat differing sonic characters)

pass xa30.8 @ 88 lbs as reference

________________________________________________________________

pass xa25 @ 45 lbs $4000 (lower power though)

hegel h20 @ 53 lbs $4000 (much more power, slightly leaner midbass, very pure)

agd tempo @ 10 lbs $5000 similar tone, slightly purer overall)

linear tube audio zotl ref40 @ 15 lbs $6500 (tubey sweetness, softer bass)

i have all these amps currently (my agd’s are the audion monos, whereas tempo is slightly more cost effective stereo version)

 

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