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The imperfect amp: Pass or Ayre?

There are two high end SS amp brands which, from a technical perspective, don’t do very well, which I am thinking of:

Ayre and Pass.

Pass has stated that even ordered distortion is euphonic. Ayre’s zero feedback, diamond circuit has a great deal of distortion compared to the very best measuring amps.

I have to admit, that like an IPA vs. a Belgian White, I have a very strong preference, but my preference is not canon. It is just how my wallet moves me. You should in no way feel like my tastes matter. Buy what makes you giddy with joy.

Would you, kind lady or gentleman, tell us if you have heard both, what did you think?? Is this to narrow? Would you throw another brand into the ring??
erik_squires

Showing 2 responses by ctsooner

ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Some top amps in this thread.  Ralph's post is priceless as Jim pointed out.  

Bob, the difference for my system was night and day.  To my ears, it shares the fast Ayre traits, but the bass got tighter, the dynamics all showed huge gains.  Feel free to call if you want to.  
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Bob, the KXR/20 is one of the best preamps made I feel.  It's Ayre's best product to date IMHO as well as most others.  It's a special piece. The MXR/20 upgrade is awesome, but not in the same league as the KXR.  That said, the preamp is more important than the amp, so that would be the upgrade I go with.  The literally use only the case and connections.  The rest of the unit is brand new.  The may still use the transformer.  It's basically a brand new unit though.  I have seen them make them.  Hope that helps a bit.  It's a 30k preamp for a reason.  I dream of owning one.  
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