2. amps-preamps
  3. 1096829187

"Upgrade" C-J MF2500A to Pass X250, SimAudio, Or?

I currently have a C-J MF2500A, Cary SLP98, Cary 303-200, Fanfare tuner, etc. driving B&W M802 S3's, in a 12x16" room. I'm actually fairly happy with the sound, but have the upgrade bug; you know how it is. The B&W's like plenty of power, so I'm thinking of high-current SS amps. For some reason I've always had an urge towards a Pass Labs X250--but would that be an "upgrade" to the 240w MF2500A? Also, I've heard that the Pass Labs amps really need balanced IC's to sound their best, which my Cary pre-amp doesn't have. I've also considered Sim Audio, Plinius, or one of the newer McIntosh amps. I'd buy anything I get used. And weight is a factor--even the X250 is twice the weight of my C-J amp, so I don't want to go much over 100 lbs., max. Thanks in advance for any advice!
steveaudio

Showing 1 response by steveaudio

steveaudio OP
331 posts
 
Cmach, that's great that you're using such high-end electronics with the Sig. 805's. The more I get into it, the more I think the upstream components are even more important than the speakers.

I'm sort of agreeing tho with people who say to keep the C-J amp. It occurs to me that I may have maxed out with this system--in terms of probably having to spend way more to really improve upon amp, pre-amp, or speakers. I mean, what would I have to get to significantly better the M802's in a full range speaker? (And with all the dues involved in selling & buying large speakers, etc.)

BTW, my cables are Nordost Blue Heaven IC's, & Cardas Quadlink 5-C bi-wire speaker cables.

Thanks for all the advice!

Steve
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