2. amps-preamps
  3. 1399826795

Pass Integrated to Pass separates

Hello - I'm considering upgrading my pass int-150 to xp-10 and XA.60.5's (maybe even 100's). The problem I'm facing is my source components aren't the best. I have a vpi scout 2 and a ps audio phone pre, although (this is embarrassing) most of the music I listen to is through sonos. I'm wondering if this upgrade might be pointless and I should instead upgrade my source components first (cd/dac and phono).

One thought I had was to do the upgrade as planned and get an oppo 105 to hold me over until I'm ready for a big boy digital source. The truth in all of this is I'll probably continue to primarily listen through sonos (sorry I love it). What I'm really after is just more of the pass sound, I can't get enough, it's intoxicating. Just wondering if some better quality sources would be more appropriate and I'll get more satisfaction from them alternatively to the pass separates.

I appreciate any advice from the community.

Thanks!
skyflyer04

Showing 7 responses by skyflyer04

skyflyer04 OP
12 posts
 
Yes, I have Martin Logan Theos. The room is 9x13 although it is a living room space in an open floor plan. Therefore one side of the room is all glass windows and the other is open to a much larger space (welcome to condo living).

I would describe the Pass as sound sweet and textured. I previously owned Krell and I find this sound to be much more lush and not nearly as analytical as the krell.
skyflyer04 OP
12 posts
 
I completely agree with the Ferrari analogy. I wonder if I might consider an x250 with the xp10? It would leave some funds for a more appropriate source. I can always move to class A later. I don't have an issue with the sound I have now, I just want more of it!
skyflyer04 OP
12 posts
 
My X250.5 will be here on Friday and I'm already having second thoughts. Everything I read says that the XA's are better at any power rating period. Is there anyone that has an X.5 and prefers it over the XA.5's?

I have a demo period so I can always exchange if I don't care for the sound... I'm just thinking that I compromised to get more of what I already have instead of something truly better.

Any feedback is greatly appreciated! I have a lot of money on the line here and want to ensure I'm not missing out by saving a few dollars!
skyflyer04 OP
12 posts
 
I ended up going with the x250.5 and will save a little money for a new source component.

I have 4 months to decide if I want to upgrade to the XA's so I can still do that. It still bothers me in the back of my mind that I didn't get the XA's but I think I made the more sensible decision given my budget. Either way I'm very excited!

On another note, Mark at Reno HiFi has been a pleasure to do business with (for the second time for me). I really appreciate the flexibility that his business model allows, it makes me feel like my investment is "safe" as there is always a path to upgrade that I find very fair and reasonable.
skyflyer04 OP
12 posts
 
Bo1972: I appreciate what you're saying about the power cord although it's not in my cards to purchase a 4k+ power chord, for the difference in dollars I can pick up XA100.5's as slightly used demo's and use my transparent reference power cords that I already have. Time will tell here, I don't really not like my int-150 so at the end of the day this might be great... I'm just having second thoughts.

I hate spending a lot of money and not getting exactly what I want in the long run I've always been happier when I didn't make the compromises.
skyflyer04 OP
12 posts
 
I also purchased the xp-10 along with the x250.5
skyflyer04 OP
12 posts
 
Onhwy61: I will also be upgrading my source components, this is part of the reason I've chosen to get the less expensive amp. I'm just concerned that I should have gone ahead as planned and waited a few months to upgrade the rest and gotten what I wanted initially...

Time will tell here, I'm letting information on the internet interfere with my own perception! Until I hear it I'm going to stop worrying about it!
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