Mark@Reno Hi-Fi has this:Pass Labs XA-160.5 pair of class-A
monos, Used, very excellent condition, one owner, one year transferable
factory warranty, all factory accessories, new factory double-boxing,
about seven years old, Satisfaction Guaranteed, S/N 22599,60. $13,500
and shipping should be free
That still seems quite high! Perhaps Mark has changed his policies since the .5 series has become harder for him to find.
Yes, he is great to deal with, and shipping is free, but 18 months ago, when .5 series were plentiful with Mark, he sold me a mint used pair of XA-100.5's for less than half that price you quote on the XA-160.5's.
Perhaps a simple supply and demand price increase. As the supply of .5's dries up, the price demand goes up.
Make sure you listen to some .8 amps before you commit to any in the .5 range. To my ears the .8 are a big big improvement.
Many do prefer the .8 series, but many also prefer the .5 series, hence the reason for the .5 sereies scarcity on the used market.
To me they are different, which is better would depend on your personal tastes.
The .8 series tend to be more resolving and transparent, while the .5 series tend to be more full and musical sounding. Choose your flavor.
