FirstWatt SIT-3 or Pass Labs XA25 for Avalon Indras?

I’ve owned the XA25 twice and tried it with a variety of speaker loads.

IMO, the amp does not excel at low listening levels, nor does it drive low impedance loads very well. It is a sweet sounding amp with great soundstage, but it really requires careful speaker matching to bring out its best. I wouldn’t want to use it with any speakers of <90dB sensitivity and <6-ohm nominal load. Also best if the speaker’s impedance has mild phase angles.

I realize this largely contradicts the claims made in the Stereophile review, but that just goes to show (IMO) the misleading tendencies of such publications. I get they often have to walk a fine line between praise and criticism, but I wish they’d be a more forthright about component limitations and synergy. Claiming that the XA25 can adequately power Magnepans for example, ultimately does nothing more than a disservice to both Pass and the consumer. The more experienced I become in this “hobby”/industry, the less I pay mind to the claims in these magazines.

The Coda No.8 (any version) will give you much of the same sound profile as the XA25 and sound way more authoritative at low listening levels with your Avalons.

Others I recommend considering are the Yamaha (yes, for real) A-S2100 or 2200 integrated amps. I owned the 2200 (currently own a 2100) at the same time as the XA25 and concluded it was overall sweeter/lusher (more similar to a SET amp) than the Pass, and like the Coda, sounds far more effortless at all listening levels. My experience is that both those Yamaha integrateds marry most of the strengths of tubes and SS, and can compete well against any separates combos I’ve compiled under ≈$8K retail.

Anyhow, the two amps you’re considering would probably be two of the last I imagine would pair well with Avalons.

Hi Alberto,

Suggest you read the stereophile review from Herb Reichert if Jan 2019if you have not done already. The choice of speakers is very important as they suggest. This is why I went with the XA25 since I have Harbeth 30.2. Another consideration may be resale, if you need to change later on. Ir if you change speakers. The XA25 would be more versatile or easier to sell iIMHO.

The Pass X25 sounds is amazing when I heard it with Tekton monitor impact. The Tekton are at least 92 db.

Check out Pathos amps since it is in your neck of the woods!!

https://pathosacoustics.it/en/non-inpol-amplifiers/

Munson was a catcher with the Yankees.  Not sure why his curve keeps coming up.  

Power isn't just for loudness. It's for fidelity. Even at low level on some music peaks can be 20 to 30dB. To play them accurately you need tons of power.

P.S. The comment on Fletcher/Munson also applies. Our ears are flat around 100dB. Bass is way, way down at 80 dB which isn't quiet after all.

Haven't heard or even seen the SIT-3 but have listened to the XA25 vs a Bricasti M25 and no contest the Bricasti just sang. The XA25 sounded strained and sterile in comparison.

You should read the recent thread about the Fletcher Munson effect and low volume listening.