Pass amps: newer xa30.8 or older xa60.5 ?

The listening room is about 15x24 and speakers are B&W Matrix 803 s2. They're being driven fine with my Pass x250.5 AB model but I have a wandering eye for the class A models. I already understand the pros/cons of AB vs A. I actually also have an older Aleph 5 I sometime us, so the XA idea is just an idea.

I second the notion that the .8 is a significant upgrade over the .5

I have heard the Matrix series driven by a Quad II at 15W,but I believe that they do like the power.You might wait and look at 100W+.After having a discussion with Kent @Pass Labs,I have come to understand that there is no jump between the .5 and .8 amplifiers (completely different circuitry.
My advice would be to hold out for more money and power.Contact Reno HiFi,as they have a 15 day audition period.You will still be responsible for shipping,but the expense is significantly less.

Acurus and Teajay, okay I hear what you are saying, that you feel the .8 is a signficant upgrade over the .5, but I am not comparing apples to apples. I'm comparing the 30 watt stereo single chassis .8 to the monoblock .5 which has more power and benefits from the supposed advantages of monoblocks.

Still feel the same way?

Elixir,
I haven't spoken to Kent about the .8 series. But in the past he has suggested the AB amps for B&W speakers. I've had my speakers for about 20 years since they were new, but I won't keep them forever.

I'm not actively looking to make a purchase anytime soon, I am just wondering about the comparison, because the 2 models are almost exactly the same price.

You're probably right about the power. The 100 watt monoblocks are probably the better choice for me.

In the meantime, I love my x250.5 and probably shouldn't even be thinking about the others. But I can't help it!! :)