If I was you I’d strongly consider this Valvet Class A amp that’s well within your budget. It doesn’t run very hot due to its relatively low output power but should still have no problem at all driving your speakers. Could be the best of both worlds where you keep great Class A sound without the heat penalty, and who knows you might even end up preferring it to your Pass. Read the reviews as they’re unanimously and overwhelmingly positive. Just another option, but personally I’d be all over this.
Class A\B or D for summer months (vs Class A)
I have a Pass XA25 with a XP20 pre-amp with Forte iV speakers.I bounce back & forth between streaming local content & vinyl. Noise floor is low, sound quality is good through the volume range - Classic rock, hard rock, blues rock... Typical late 70's through 90's mainstream bangers.
Last summer I did notice the XA25 amp and my central air were battling it out a little in the listening room. The amp had no issues and runs warm regardless of season. I guess I notice it more when I'm looking to stay cool vs stay warm.
I have a Benchmark LA4 preamp that I used prior to the Pass XP20. I'm sure there's good synergy between the Benchmark LA4 and Benchmark AHB2 amp so the AHB2 has been on my 'investigate further' list.
I'm a little worried that it might be too thin or sterile vs the XP25. The AHB2 would certainly help reduce the heat.
Anyone been down a similar path with thoughts to share?