2. amps-preamps
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Pass Labs xa-25 or Coda Continum #8

I’m looking at both of these amps as future contenders. Downsizing to a one box amp or perhaps integrated(another thread for another time) and I’d like opinions on these 2. There are quite a bit of discussions on the xa25 and my speaker builder, Volti, says he’s heard with his speakers and it’s a good match. I currently have a 300b but moving may force my hand. Anyway, it’s really the Coda I’m not as familiar with. It has come up in some of the xa-25 discussions as an alternative. The incoming Volti’s are 99db so they don’t need a ton of juice obviously. Anyone with first hand experience with both? Any comments are appreciated. 
‘BTW, no single box tube amp suggestions. If I stay with tubes I already know which direction I’m going. 

earthbound

Showing 1 response by thriftyaudio

thriftyaudio's avatar
thriftyaudio
137 posts
 

I looked at the #8 and the S5.5. In the dealer's showroom the #8 was marginally more appealing to me with the same Legacy speakers (various models). Ultimately I selected the Pass XA 25. I felt it was more neutral with the Coda amps having a bit or warmth (could have been the speakers though).

I have the opposite issue regarding speakers. My Acoustats have a db83 rating and I was concerned the XA 25 would not have enough power for them, in which case I would have looked at the XA 30.8, or reconsidered the Coda options. The XA 25 has no issue with the my inefficient giants. It does get a bit warm, but it is definitely worth it.

Have fun with the search. 

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