I at one point I had both a Ref 75SE and Pass xa25 in my system. I concur with @chcook's statement " I actually find the XA to have more midrange warmth than the Ref 75. I really like them both a lot - Ref 75 edges out the Pass on soundstage, and Pass seems just a bit warmer/fuller in the midrange." I will add that I thought the Ref75SE had a little blacker background.
Audio Research versus McIntosh tube amps: anyone experience or compare both?
As stated in the title of this thread, considering both brands. I'm looking for a new or near new tube amp to run my Joseph Audio Pulsar's. Have been using a Pass XA25, which sounds a little lean with this speaker. Looking for a touch of tube warmth and bloom, but still good detail.
Considering a new McIntosh 275 MkVI or possibly a preowned ARC Reference 75SE. New ARC costs more than I want to spend ($6K range or less). Preamp is ARC Ref 2 MKII BTW.
Would appreciate any insight for those who have experienced both. Thanks!