2. amps-preamps
  3. 185476-181376

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 2 responses by reg19

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reg19
80 posts
 

Definitely not the Pass Labs (which, otherwise, are wonderful sounding) if your speaker’s impedance dips that low.

I had X260.8 monos and now I use the Parasound JC1+ monos for the same reason you mention.

The Luxman M900U should work, but, IMHO, I’m not sure if it is a good match with B&W sound. The resultant sound might be a bit bright and thin despite your tube preamps - but I guess that depends on your room as well.

Ag insider logo xs@2x
reg19
80 posts
 

Do not look at the XA series of Pass. Yes, they are warmer and fantastic.

However, if you look at measurements, they don’t do quite as well at lower impedances.

But they are fantastic if your speakers’ s minimum impedance is 4 ohms or greater.

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