I have owned a couple of a Pass amps (including an INT-60, which a friend now has) and I still own a couple of First Watt amps. I have also built two Amp Camp Amps (ACA), which are designed by Nelson Pass. I respect Mr. Pass for his “different/subjective” approach. The reason is didn’t keep the Pass amps was due to size and heat, they are big and hot. Large Class A designs just don’t work well for me. Nothing against the sound.
With that said, I have found a few amps that have a similar sound to Pass that I prefer:
The Nagra is refined with lots of air and ambient texture.
The Naim is smooth, organic and lush.
The Gryphon is dynamic, fast and detailed. This amp, like the Pass, is big and hot, and those side fins can bite when it is moved.
The speakers and room, as always, play an extremely important roll.
@chorus : What speakers are you planning to use?
With that said, I have found a few amps that have a similar sound to Pass that I prefer:
- Nagra Classic INT
- Naim SuperNAIT
- Gryphon Diablo 300
The Nagra is refined with lots of air and ambient texture.
The Naim is smooth, organic and lush.
The Gryphon is dynamic, fast and detailed. This amp, like the Pass, is big and hot, and those side fins can bite when it is moved.
The speakers and room, as always, play an extremely important roll.
@chorus : What speakers are you planning to use?