2. amps-preamps
  3. 1313116554

XA 30.5 or mod S/500?

I've been watching the 'Gon fruitlessly for some time to get a Threshold S/500, "late Series II w/Optical Bias" (per Jon Soderberg, this is what he needs in order to do his modification to produce a Class A one-chassis SA/1 "clone" [my word, not his]). I'm beginning to wonder if a Pass XA 30.5 might not be equivalent or better sounding; I know they're easier to find. Unless I get lucky and find an already-Soderberg-ed S/500, the cost of amp and mod might even be approaching the price of a used XA 30.5(?). Either amp will be used with a FET 9 preamp. Speakers are currently Vandersteen 2CEs, but contemplating future purchase of 3A Sigs, or Maggie 3.6s, and a REL sub. Anyone heard SA/1s AND heard XA 30.5? Thanks.
cippoliner

Showing 2 responses by danielk141

danielk141
489 posts
 
Cippoliner,

I believe your Threshold preamp is not balanced.
As long as your using this preamp, you will not be using any truly balanced amp to it's full potential.
An Adcom GFP 750 would be an instant upgrade, cheap.
danielk141
489 posts
 
Cippoliner,

If you live somewhere where you can use true Class A amps,
you should try a pair of Pass Aleph 2s. These are not balanced (even though they have balanced & single ended inputs). I believe they will mate well with your current preamp.
These list used between $2500.00 & $3K. They sell when the price is close to $2500.00.
These sound very good, to me. I've had mine for 9 years.
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