2. misc-audio
  3. 190104-89202

Quandary

I’m really happy with my system. However when a technician, who is also a salesman, came to my house for a stereo repair he complimented my set but said it would sound a lot better if I switched out my Benchmark AHB2 amp (which I think is great) for a Pass 30 wpc class AB amp. He offered to let me hear that amp in my system so that I could decide for myself (at a fee of $300.) The only problem is he doesn’t  have the 30 watt amp in stock but would have to demo the Pass sound with 60 watt monoblocks. He assured  me that with my very efficient GoldenEar Triton 1 speakers the 30 watt amp will almost have the the same quality.

Do you think I can honestly judge how the smaller amp will actually sound? Or should I cancel the demonstration (and save$300?)

rvpiano

Showing 2 responses by erik_squires

erik_squires
16,586 posts
 

@cdc Luxman, D’Agostino, Vandersteen (yes, they make amps), Parasound, Sanders.

When I say I can recomend them that doesn’t mean they handle all loads, but rather they are at least neutral and tonally will not cause themselves to be noticed. Amps I can’t recommend are those that to my ears are objectionable, or that have a particular type of speaker they sound good with.

Ayre is a brand I really like... but also distinct enough I can't universally recommend.

erik_squires
16,586 posts
 

Pass is, IMHO, a very personal choice, and I would never consider it without listening first.  Would I pay for an audition?  No.  Go listen in the store first at least.

There are amps I can recommend unconditionally for all listeners with all systems, and Pass is not one of them.  Requires a special listener with the right speakers.

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