Pass Aleph 5 vs. Pass XA 30.5 / 60.5


Hi! Currently, means for the past 15 yrs, I own a Pass Aleph 5 to my great sonic pleasure. Would it be a wise idea to trade it in for a pass xa 30.5 or a pair of xa 60.5? I´d be glad to get a comment!
aikidoka

Showing 1 response by hew

I also owned the Aleph 5 for more than 15 years driving a pair of Proac Response 2s. Two years ago I traded up for a XA30.5 that I now used on a pair of Druids. I wouldn't say the 30.5 is necessarily better than the Aleph 5. Just different. The XA30.5, even though its rated at less power, seems more powerful. It swings to the yang side of the spectrum with a more detailed and neutral presentation. There is excellent extension and good control at the extremes. OTOH, I found the Aleph had a more mellow and relaxed presentation that was easier to get involved in. I especially missed its sweet top end.

If you really like the sound of the Aleph then I'd also consider the First Watt amps since they seem to represent a further refinement of the yin side of music reproduction.