Recommend Class a Amp

I agree that 200 watts of class A for 3k would be tough, except for considerably older equipment -- which might not be a bad way to go.

On the Pass 30s, I have the corresponding integrated the INT-30A, and while I love it, I diverge a bit from the commonly stated opinion that these amps are up to driving thirsty speakers: I've not found mine to be a great match for them, compared to more robust A/AB designs.

For a very nice A/AB option in your price range, you might also consider Odyssey.

John

As stated, a Pass INT-30A owner:

While I've not heard other low watt Pass designs, I completely agree with Abrew regards the trade off: even with high efficiency speakers (Al, I'm now running the Ulysses :), you are trading low end authority for super yummy mids and highs. The very fine Odyssey dual mono that my Pass replaced was conspicuously superior down under (up the range, not so much :)

I mostly listen to "small" music, particularly of the "girl with guitar" variety, so as Mark at Reno HiFi promised, a good trade off for me.

But I think, not for everybody, depending on speaker preference and listening habits.

John

Thanks Al!

I got lucky with a local enthusiast who is moving and needed to downsize. They are non-poly v. 1s, but so far feeling little pressure to consider updating them :) I may be picking your brain regards set-up, though i'm pretty happy with where I have them now.

Regards the present topic, 30w of Pass makes a nice match for these speakers, with a claimed sensitivity of 97 db or so, but I could also imagine greater ease at higher volumes with more grunt.

John