Amp selection help

[merkinman]

I've been trying out a pass labs x250.5 and the sound is pretty much what I'm looking for. Problem is that when pushed hard, it leaves class A and the sound degrades. I would love to move up to a larger pass amp, but am concerned about the heat, as the pass runs pretty hot. A pass XA amp could work, but I'm afraid that the sonic signature may be a bit too tame, when compared with the x series...for the type of music I listen too. Are there any amps out with a similar sonic signature that would run in class AB?

[cmalak]

merkinman...can you remind us what speakers you are driving and if you know sensitivity and impedance ratings (nominal and minimum)?

[dteam702]

merkinman.. Bryston would be another candidate also..

[merkinman]

I'm currently own a pair of B&W 683s but will upgrade in the near future so want to make sure I'll be covered. I think I wouldn't venture too far from the 90db sensitivity. Impedence is 8 nom with 3 min.

[merkinman]

Originally Posted by dteam702

merkinman.. Bryston would be another candidate also..

Does Bryston have somewhat of a euphonic sound. I really want to stay away form analytical equpment. For example, I found the classe amps a bit to relaxed in presentation, although they were very smooth.

Originally Posted by merkinman

I've been trying out a pass labs x250.5 and the sound is pretty much what I'm looking for. Problem is that when pushed hard, it leaves class A and the sound degrades. I would love to move up to a larger pass amp, but am concerned about the heat, as the pass runs pretty hot. A pass XA amp could work, but I'm afraid that the sonic signature may be a bit too tame, when compared with the x series...for the type of music I listen too. Are there any amps out with a similar sonic signature that would run in class AB?

I would vote for the similarly priced Modwright KWA-150SE which offers 150 watts, plenty fo capacitance, sounds tube-like and has wonderful low level detail. This reviewer from 10Audio compared the X250.5, Levinson 532H, Aesthetix Atlas, Parasound JC-1 & Bryston 7B SST2 and preferred the Modwright - Modwright KWA 150 SE Power Amplifier on 10 Audio

Cheers,