Pioneer M-22 or Pass Aleph 3?

I'm not sure your going to find someone that has experience with both, as they keep different company.

I did have the Pass Labs Aleph 30 that Nelson liked better as it is an upgrade to the 3. Tighter bass, more dynamic, pristine clarity. I loved mine and it is still one of my all time favorite amps.

I had one of Nelson' Aleph stereo amps plus I've owned several M-22s and M-25s. I would place the M-22 above the Aleph stereo primarily due to the "magic" factor. The M-22 is one of the greatest low powered amplifiers that I've had the privilege to own and audition. Its magic is based upon a to-die-for liquid midrange coupled with simply holographic image placement. I prefer it to the excellent Classe DR2/3. The Aleph did nothing wrong, it just did not have that certain something we all strive for. It is not remembered as classic. Just a good basic amp. The mono blocks bettered it.

Peter

Good to here your comments on the comparison. But I disagree that the Aleph series are not classics. They sure are and have a following all the way thru Nelson Pass' kitchen table projects. The Aleph 30 is one of my all time fovorites.

When I talk classics, I mean amps such as Nelson's SA-1s, Krell KSA 50 or 100. Amps that transcend the normal. Again, I'm referring to the Aleph stereo model that was square in shape. I don't believe these particular stereo amps are as "collectable" as the SA-1s, or an S-500. Mind you, they have a following, as many of Nelson's products do, but those who like them perhaps may not have heard SA-1s. The Aleph monos are though, very very good. I have a dear reviewer friend who has them singing in his Wilson based system.

Just my thoughts,

Peter