2. amps-preamps
  3. 190102-89202

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 4 responses by jl35

jl35
4,181 posts
 

I would also wonder if the owner, realizing you are a serious buyer, might upon discussing make you a better offer 

jl35
4,181 posts
 

maybe for starters bring your easy to carry Benchmark to the dealer and do some free testing...just to get a sense...I much prefer Pass to Benchmark...but wouldn't pay $300 for an audition...there's gotta be a better way...

jl35
4,181 posts
 

All the Pass XA amps are rated at what their Class A power is, but all put out much more when when they shift to Class AB ...the meter actually only tells when the amp switches from Class A to AB.  The X series amps are rated as Class AB, but the first typically 10-25 watts are Class A...

jl35
4,181 posts
 

I agree with your thought to shun this deal....but you can still explore Pass....easy to bring your 12.5 pound Benchmark to your Pass dealer...while there is some disagreement here on some issues, there appears to be agreement that Pass and Benchmark sound quite different...without the expensive hard sell from the tech/owner, it just may be fun to explore Pass and other amps, especially with your amp so easy to carry around...shun the deal but give in to your curiosity !!!

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