Pass or Spectral

I heard Spectral electronics driving Magico V2 speakers. Excellent combination. I loved it, but it sure was detailed.

I have a Pass XP-20 and XA100.5 which sound great together and in my system. I have heard Spectral gear, though not the top of the line like you mention, in a system that had the same tt as mine but different speakers and room, so I can't really compare. That SME/Spectral/MIT/Magico system was the best I've heard. At this level, you have to match the electronics to the speakers and your taste. I have not heard the Focals. The dealer should let you audition these electronics in your system before committing, but I'm pretty sure the same dealer doesn't represent both of these top brands.

Drjoe brings up a good point about the Spectral gear needing very expensive MIT cables to sound their best. The Pass is slightly warmer with very natural timbre and glorious midrange, while I found the Spectral ultra clean and detailed. They are both great.

Syntax,
I have the Pass XA.5 and have heard Spectral amps which contributed to the superb sound of an excellent system. I know you prefer and own Lamm, which I understand is some of the best tube power available, though I have never heard them. I would think that the Pass XA.5 would have the control of the bass that great SS amps like Spectal have and also some of the body, warmth and palpability that the best tube amps like Lamm have. Have you heard the Pass XA.5 series? I'm curious to know why you don't seem to like Pass and prefer both Lamm and Specral which must sound very different from each other. Thanks. Peter

Sergio,
Congratulations on the Spectral gear. That is an incredible combination. I heard a lower model Spectral amp/pre driving Magico speakers and the sound was wonderful. Have you considered Magico and what was the Pass combo missing compared to the Spectral gear?