Mac MA 352 vs Pass INT-60


I've had an order in for the Mac MA 352 for 3 months and supposedly it's coming shortly.   I wanted the tube front end but now I've got an option since I no longer think I need a balance control and I just found a really good deal for a new Pass INT-60. I'm running these, hopefully, into KEF R7 Metas at 88 dB.  I figure the Pass is adequate into those 4 ohm speakers in my 25x14 space. I also figure the Pass has as much tube-like quality with likely a better high end than the Mac. If price is not a factor, what do you think?  The Pass is a beast, but I can deal with that, and my first real amp was a Threshold 400A.  I have some worry about current delays in Mac serviceability also.  :)

howardlee

Showing 3 responses by dwest1023

I have owned the pass 60 and I own the Mac 352. With the stock tubes the pass sounds more tuby. The pass 60 is a phenomenal sounding amp. I traded it for my Pass 250. In a lot of ways I like the sound of it better. The 60 has a very warm sound that is very engaging. The Mac 252 is more like the sound of tubes than the 352. The pass 60 also sounds a lot more powerful than the 352. Keep in mind, the pass 60 gets very hot. Hotter than my 250. Good for winter, not so much in summer. I have 4 integrated amps, and my pass only gets, in rotation in winter. 

Yes, the pass 60 is heavy, but the 250 is heavier. It weighs 106 pounds! I have a small two-shelf rack and put my pass on the top level. I use a hydraulic lift to take it down and put it up. I'm 70, and no way can I lift that beast. Enjoy your Pass, it is a great-sounding amp. The 250 leans a bit more to the neutral side with a hint of warmth. What the 250 has over the 60 is treble refinement.

If you change out the stock tunes to pvane horizon, the mac 352 will sound significantly better. As far as pass coloring sound, my pass 250 does not color the sound anymore than my Mac, Accuphase, Hegal. They all have a slightly different presentation. During my amp, rotation there are times when I feel my other amps sound just as nice as my pass until I put my pass back in rotation. The Pass does, it the best. The pass 60 is darker sounding than the 250.