Coda #8, Pass XA25, or Schiit Tyr to replace PS Audio M700


I recently upgraded my power amp from a Nakamichi PA7Aii to PS Audio M700 monoblocks.  I honestly expected to flip the M700 pair quickly because I did not think they would be better than the PA7Aii.  The M700s actually provide a wider and more detailed soundstage.  I sold the Nak.

I listen (often passively) for several hours each day.  I began to identify a 'shrill' on the high end.  Since I had upgraded my DAC (DirectStream Mk1) I initially thought that could be it.  I rotated three DACs through the system (DS, N130, and Eversolo DMP-A6).  All of them had the shrill.  I then put in an old NAD 7600 and the shrill went away along with a lot of the detail.  Put the M700 back in and used the EQ from the DMP-A6 streamer to limit extreme high end.  Ended up with a -1 Q starting at 19,500 Hz that solved the shrill, but also muddied the high end detail.  I don't trust the EQ a lot and figure more is being impacted than the targeted range.

This led me to consider upgrading the M700 pair.  I have a  pair of Acoustat 1+1 speakers with low sensitivity efficiency (81 to 86 depending on who the source is) with a pair of Rythmik F12SE subs and an active crossover at 100 Hz controlled by the SPL Crossover.  My budget is around $6K.

Looked at the Pass XA25.  Not certain there is enough power there although a Pass representative encouraged my to try it.  I was hoping to get two used and use them as mono blocks.  

The Schiit Tyr has been on my short list for awhile (prior to buying the M700).  The Schiit AI tool actually stated the Tyr was not a good match and suggested other Schiit amps.  This seemed strange to me.  I sent an email to Schiit seeking clarification, but have not heard back.  I may go to there store in LA this week to talk to someone live.  

The Coda #8 came up as an option as I was exploring.  I looked at other Coda used products, but #8 seems to match up best. (Well, the #16 matched up best, but was more than double my budget).  I will go take a look at it later this week.  Not a mono block but could work.

I am essentially seeking the last 1-2% of the detail the Acoustats can provide.  Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

One final note.  I am not interested in tube power amps.  I don't like the fussiness of tubes and the Acoustats seem to pick up the hum from tubes. I know it shouldn't happen with their sensitivity, but I notice it.  It could be my prejudice, but please no tube suggestions.

thriftyaudio

@thriftyaudio I also use a Benchmark LA4 (changed to the HPA4 last week). I use it with the CODA #16 and really love the 2 together. 

Interesting comment you made about the Magtech. I am finding it superb on the LRS+. However, not as superb on my Yamaha NS5000. The CODA #16 is great on both. If you can swing it the #16 is great and you will not be thinking of another amp to upgrade to in the future. 

BTW - do not put a WANTED ad for a #16. A lot of swindlers out there. 

 

kairosman The Acoustat 1+1 are truly unique speakers with the best tone I have ever heard other than from a live performance.  That, and they look like the monolith from 2001.  Research them a bit.  I had a pair of B&W Nautilus for a New York minute and definitely preferred the Acoustats.  I have a thing for speakers as scupture... and accurate sound reproduction.

Hi, believe it or not I too have had the PS Audio M700 mono blocs. They were my 2nd venture into audio via desktop (yes, a desktop). 1st amp was a Schiit Vidar. The m700's were powerful but still class D amps. Take a risk, go class A or A-B. I have the Willsenton R8 with upgraded tubes, a kinky Studio EX M1 with upgraded op-amps, Schiit Freya+, Pontus II with upgraded board, and or, RME ADC II, DACS with a denafrips Iris, Bluesound node with upgraded power supply/board & or, Eversolo A6 (playing) and currently listening to monitor audio 50's all on a desktop. Point is, i have not looked back on the M700's with a sad face...    

You might want to give the Krell amps an audition.   I use them in my electrostatic rig for some of the same reasons you cite.   I’ve got the K300i integrated, but for you the XD125 or 175 Duo should work nicely.   To my ears the Krells have a tube warmth yet with big solid state authority and control.

The Schitt Tyrs are outstanding. I returned the Pass XA-30.8 in favor of the Tyrs. The hefty amount of money saved was a nice bonus.