Need highly transparent detailed amp---how does Pass XA25 compare to Gamut D100/D200 MKIII

I just picked up a used DEMO set of Simaudio MOON 740P (Pre Amp)860A (Amp)- for about $15k. I was afraid of heat from the PASS, and couldn't afford the Luxman 900. The Simaudio makes my KEF REFERENCE 5's sing. Great clear soundstage.

I have been running the pair non-stop for 48 hours (burning in new cables). The pre-amp is COOL and the amp is warm, but certainly not HOT. They are built like tanks and come with a 10yr warranty.

I was told (by a dealer) that the Simaudio gear is better with KEF than GamuT, but there is a listing for a GamuT amp/pre-amp on Audiogon now, from Audio Vision in SF. Steal of a deal if GamuT works for you.

I also have a complete Simaudio system and it is really really nice. I recommend them as well. 740 preamp, 860 amp, 780 streamer/DAC

cdamiller 5

or anyone- Do you know how the Simaudio 780 DAC compares to CHORD HUGO TT, or Chord Dave? I am working on DAC's next... Currently using Bluesound Node and a borrowed chord qutest. Good. Not GREAT!

OP, seems no one here owns either the Gamut D100 or D200 MKIII, so take with a large dose of salt any opinions about it one way or the other.

I auditioned the XA25 extensively in my home before buying my CODA No. 8 - decided the XA25 runs too hot when pushed, and also I wanted more current.

The XA25 is warm, smooth and detailed, but I would not say transparent - and also I hesitate to employ that term because I am not sure my definition of that term is consistent with yours.

A memorable amp I heard during my auditions was the new Kinki Studios EX-M7, which was as close to the famous Goldmund "Swiss" sound as I'd heard for under 15K. Hyper fast, detailed/resolving and powerful - and LESS than 3K new delivered to your door (the build quality is off the charts for something under 5K).

https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/kinki6/

Not my cup of tea, but it might be yours, FWIW.

kairosman ---funny you should mention the Kinki integrated.  I looked into it (and still consider it for a secondary system).  I don't like active preamps though (nor passive I guess---source direct only for me).   I've been considering trading in toward the one listed on TMR.  And I think you're right about no one here having compared the two directly.  Sounds like the Gamuts might be more what I'm looking for though the Pass reviews are all so glowing.  


And at $15000, the Simaudio is about 80% more than I can afford.  I won't even look up the reviews so as not to torture myself.  


Thanks to all who contributed