McIntosh MC601 vs Pass Labs XA 100.8 (or 160.8)


Hello folks. I’m new to the forum and could use your help. I have Wilson Audio Sasha, series 1, speakers and have been using Krell 350 MCX amps and want to upgrade the amps. I’m thinking about the Mac MC601s, which I will audition in my house this coming weekend. I’m also thinking about the Pass Labs XA100.8s but I don’t have a Pass dealer in my city so all I can do is rely on reviews and comments on forums. I have a moderately sized dedicated listening room and Pass tells me that the 100.8 will most certainly drive my speakers. Any comments you have about either pair of amps would be most helpful. Also, if anyone has experience between the XA100.8s and the XA160.8s, that would be helpful too. Is there much to gained by buying the more expensive amps when the cheaper ("yeah right"!) ones will drive my speakers anyway? Thanks.
semaj

Showing 1 response by cal3713

Not a great data point for you, but I compared Mac (MC402) and Pass (XA-30.5) products much further down the line and felt the Pass was better in every way possible.  I've seen some people go the other way with a very similar comparison though.  System synergy I guess... I had Thiels at the time though, go figure.

To contact Kent (I really loved interacting with him as well, very honest information about the products), just e-mail info@passlabs.com or call their customer service number, 530.878.5350.  It's all listed on the contact page of the Pass website.