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ARC 100.2 vs Pass Alephs

Has anyone compared these amps in a high resolution system such as electrostatics? I have a Pass Aleph V and cannot imagine a more transparent and natural amp, but it is somewhat power limited. I listen to all kinds of music through multiple sources. Are there suggestions re: upstream components and cables? Does the 100.2 sound better in a S/E mode or in a true balanced system?
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5 responses Add your response
tubeguy4599a9
15 posts
 
The Pass X150 or if you can swing it the Pass X250.
mg123
192 posts
 
Have you thought of upgrading your Pass? I have the Pass Aleph 4 (100 easy watts/ch)and absolutely love it powering my Revel Studios. There are also some Aleph 2 monoblocks occasionally for sale.
marakanetz's avatar
marakanetz
5,473 posts
 
If you had ARC 100.2 before and get Pass Aleph V, you would get a serious upgrade onto your system. Pass has enough power but MLs are "too heavy" for SS(has to be at least 200W/ch) VTL MB125 will be the best bet that has triode/tetrode modes switched for different gain/power settings (55W/ch and 125W/ch). Financially VTL can be cheaper in this case.
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ivanj OP
35 posts
 
Thanks, Paul. FYI, the 100.2 is a solid state amp that many Agoners feel is a "sleeper."
paulbarrow
2 posts
 
I recently traded my Aleph equipment to go back to tubes (Manley), powering Gallo Reference speakers. I loved the Pass sound while I had it, but putting tubes back in made my system sound so much more alive and exciting. In retrospect, the Pass Aleph sounded "perfect," but boring. Paul
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