Pls help me decide Pass Labs X250.8 or Luxman M900u


I want to upgrade my 2 channel audio.  I have a 7.2.4 Home Theater system I am in the process of upgrading. Recently I upgraded my old B&W N805 / HTM2 to the 803D4 / HT81D4 and relegated my N805’s to Surround duty (and they excel in this roll!)

I have been driving (due to age of system) with a Pass Labs X5, which I will keep for surrounds and center on HT , but I want to upgrade my 2 Channel Audio.  I currently am trying to decide between the PassLabs X250.8 and the  Luxman M900u.  As these B&W’s can dip down below 2ohms I want to make sure I buy an amp which will bring out the best in my system and handle these dips. I will also be buying a Tube Preamp with HT Bypass -(looking for a used VAC Signature Mk5 SE or the new Backert Rhumba Extreme 1.4)

 

Anyone with experience with either of these amps and B&W 800’s would be great to hear from.

Thx!

 

garynospamm

Showing 3 responses by ghdprentice

I have heard the Luxman u and must agree would not be a good match with the speakers. Having owned a X350 for nearly a decade I would find it hard to believe it would show any negative sonic qualities because of the impedance. However, at least since I like more musical vs detailed / slam amps I would look at Pass XA.

OP,

 

Just to point to the reality that your own values and system are the most important aspects in choosing an amp. I completely disagree with @mtdining on every point he makes. This does not mean he is wrong for him. I have 50 years of experience in pursuing high end. I have owned Pass amps for over thirty years and spent a lot of time auditioning Luxman, Boulder, and Spectral. My conclusion is exactly the opposite. Pass exceeds in bass extension, and particularly rhythm and pace… making his amps far more compelling.

This is why you must audition amps in your own system. I am not doubting @mtdining has not experienced what he advocates… just that our values and systems are different.

@audphile1 

 

+1 I agree. I used an Audio Research Reference 5SE for many years with a Pass x350. Is a great combo… although, to me, a way better combo was with a REF 160… but that is another conversation.