Hi aardvarkbark. A disclaimer to begin, the Pass is a great amp. We each have different preferences, speakers, rooms, optimal volume levels, etc, etc. I could live happily ever after with the Pass. I preferred the Boulder and I enjoy ARC ref tube gear as well. You are correct, finesse is very subjective. I encourage you to go and listen when you are able with familiar gear, etc. You may not agree for your tastes. To use a car analogy, the Pass is like a Corvette at idle and the Boulder is like a Porsche. When you goose the throttle, the Boulder is actually quite surprising. At modest volume levels, to my ears, it is very rich and then a dynamic snap hits you when you weren't expecting it. Always absolutely composed. YMMV
|