2. amps-preamps
  3. 182493-165894

recommendation of amps

Just looking for a little guidance. Starting to look for an AMP.  Most likely solid state. I listen to R&R only, high 80's low 90's    Room 13x14 bathroom to one side hallway to another, normal furnishings, wood floors.  Speakers, Fritz carbon 7se bookshelf, SVS SB3000 Sub, Currently Peachtree amp 500 running system (not Bad)  Benchmark Dac 3B and LA-4 Benchmark Line Amp, Audiolab 6000 CD Transport, Everything Balanced, with the exception of the Transport. Stream Qobuz also. System sounds really good. Just looking for a TOP SHELF AMP.  Budget maybe 6-7 k new or used, (Less preferred)  Prefer new with warranty???  Have a ATI AMP 6002 in main system, in another room, much bigger room, and kicks ass, in every regard. Would like something different (maybe)  Current set up feels a little neutral, and analytical,   maybe looking for something a little warmer.  Have been looking at a used Pass Labs 250.8  for example     Maybe a little overkill though? Always a little nervous over tubes (scared even) Afraid of NOT ENOUGH JUICE to listen at my levels.  Very open to your suggestions. Thanks as always     Robert TN

robshaw

Showing 1 response by ddafoe

ddafoe
238 posts
 

I had a Benchmark AHB2 for almost 3 years and really enjoyed the clean sound and wide stage. I decided to make a big jump about 2 years ago to the Pass 250.8 and instantly heard why people enjoy Pass. The soundstage was deeper, taller, and most importantly it made listening more fun. Instruments and vocals had more weight/tone to them and the soundstage felt more cohesive than the AHB2.

This is exactly how I felt when I dropped an AHB2 into my system which was anchored by an X250.8.   I really liked the AHB2 for the $$ and how clear it was, but I found it lacked the front to back soundstage depth and life-like texture and tone of the Pass.   I sold it after a month or two and kept the Pass for like 5 years.

@robshaw, if the 250.8's hint of warmth, musicality, lack of any harshness, and a killer soundstage interests you, I recommend you listen to the AtmaSphere Class D monos.   They come very close (IMO) to the 250.8 and XA30.8 sound signatures that I'm very used to.   I now own a pair of the AtmaSphere monos and am very happy with them.

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