2. amps-preamps
  3. 137240-20253

Ayre <--> Parasound <--> Pass : where are you?

I’ve been thinking a little bit about three different types of SS amplifier sounds. I’m not really sure what to call them, but I have a definite preference. Here is the spectrum in my mind:

Ayre <--> Parasound <--> Pass 

On the one hand is Ayre and Arcam. Yeah, fight me, but there are big similarities to the sound. I also loved the Pono and what it did for my IEMs, using the Ayre designed output stage. I wish Fiio would license it too.

In the middle is Parasound Halo and ICEpower Class D modules (I’ve owned both) which to me are identical in sound quality. Clearly I’m happy with them for the price!

On the opposite end of the spectrum is Pass. A sound I really don’t like.

But regardless of which you like, what do you think the differences are?

What spectrum do you use to think about solid state amplifiers??
erik_squires

Showing 1 response by mikey8811

mikey8811
259 posts
 
This is the first time I’ve heard Pass Labs amps being described as thin and really that is the furthest from my experience with them. So I guess it all comes down to system particulars.

I like Ayre as well but would say that compared to Pass, they are leaner sounding - at least the non Twenty versions are.

I came close to buying some MX R’s (non Twenty) but ended up with Pass which had a more ballsy and definitely fuller sound. Thin they are definitely not. I've heard the X250.5 and would not describe them as thin either - granted the top end has a bit of grain. The Ayre’s were smooth and rolled off up top in a good way and I would have been happy with them too.
More to discover