2. amps-preamps
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Pass XA 25 versus Parasound A21+ - anyone compare?

Basically I'm looking at solid state amps to run my current Totem Rainmakers - with the possibility of upgrading the speakers to Joseph Audio Pulsars (used if I can find some) as well.

My listening room is modest sized - about 18' by 13" with 8' foot ceiling.

Rest of system: Naim cd 5 player, Hana EL cartridge on a vintage Pioneer 600 table, Classe DR 5 II preamp.  Amp to be replaced is original Adcom 555.

I'm thinking both could work well, with the Parasound providing more dynamics and the Pass more finesse.  Obviously the Pass is about an extra $1000, which is a factor given the modestly priced system.  Also no balanced option with the Pass - not sure that is important.

BTW no Pass or Joseph dealer in my area (Atlanta), though Parasound is available for a listen.

Thoughts?
bobbydd
bobbydd OP
97 posts
 
I listen to all types of music: jazz, rock, classical.  moderate to loud volume levels though do not BLAST it often.  

Interesting responses so far, to say the least.

Per my original post no Pass dealer nearby.

BUT, my Parasound dealer just started carrying Luxman - though as seperates my guess is that the latter is pricey.

Decisions decisions ...
avanti1960
1,480 posts
 
I have been enjoying a Parasound a21+ for two days now and it is a very nice sounding amplifier.  Driven from a tube preamp and driving Harbeth SHL5+ speakers.  
The sound is different than the original a21 which had its issues as a true audiophile amp.  
The new one is smooth, detailed, refined and seems to make everything sound excellent.   The Stereophile Class A rating is justified.   
hornguys
180 posts
 
I have the Perspective 2s.  I run them with my Pass INT-60 in my RoomPlay Reference demo room.   There are a few times that I wish I had a bit more sound level capability. 

IMO, both the Pulsars and the Perspectives are near the bottom of current loudspeaker choices in terms of efficiency.  I would not think that the XA-25 would be enough power.

Of course, their performance - in terms of sheer musical involvement - is at or near the top, well beyond more pricey competitors.  Again not stated as an irrefutable fact, but IMO & IME...

Best,

Jim Smith


shahram
115 posts
 
@avanti1960 

Did you get rid of the Rogue Stereo 100, or swapping back in forth for a different flavor?
shahram
115 posts
 
I would also chime in that the Rainmaker is pretty low sensitivity and your room is pretty moderately sized. The Pass does make closer to 80 watts per channel (at 1% distortion) so it should be enough power, but the only way to know is to try it.
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