New Pass Labs XA100.8 Amplifiers Incoming

[cma29]

Originally Posted by chessman

Carlos, congrats on the new amps! And congrats on "ending your journey" .... I've done it 5 or 6 times myself.

[cma29]

Originally Posted by PlanarSpeakerFan

XA-100.8 vs. XA-100.5

Both are tremendous amplifiers but sound somewhat different. Here is a brief summation of my observations after a few days of listening.

XA-100.8:
1. Sounds more clear or transparent to the recording.
2. Wider and deeper soundstage with more holographic imaging.
3. More ease or effortless sound (Can listen at higher volume levels).
4. More bass with greater control that seems to reach deeper.
5. Lower noise floor which enhances dynamics.

XA-100.5:
1. More buttery or tube-like warmth in sound.
2. Smaller more intimate soundstage.
3. More precise but less holographic imaging.
4. More laid back and less noticeable bass presentation.

I am falling in love with the sound of the 100.8's. But I honestly could see some listeners preferring the more intimate presentation and the tube-like buttery warmth of the XA-100.5's. Best to listen for yourself to see your preference. YMMV.

Best,
Ken

Ken - Great description of the XA100.8s against the .5s

I should have my point 8s this week, so I'll be developing my own impressions shortly.

[Higgens]

I like the idea that Pass is continuing to offer both the point 5 and the point 8 models. Something to suit the tastes of a variety of listeners. When I auditioned them I was surprised at the difference in character between the two model ranges. Ken did a nice job of capturing the distinctions.

[Mikado463]

Congrats on the new amps as all have said. Looks being subjective, I guess I'm the only one who likes the older look better, well at least for the face plate anyways ........

[PlanarSpeakerFan]

Originally Posted by cma29

Ken - Great description of the XA100.8s against the .5s

I should have my point 8s this week, so I'll be developing my own impressions shortly.

Thanks Carlos. That is terrific news about your XA-100.8's, you'll be able to enjoy them over the holidays. I think you'll immediately notice the difference in clarity and imaging, it's significant. I can't wait to hear your impressions.

Best,
Ken

[PlanarSpeakerFan]

Originally Posted by Higgens

I like the idea that Pass is continuing to offer both the point 5 and the point 8 models. Something to suit the tastes of a variety of listeners. When I auditioned them I was surprised at the difference in character between the two model ranges. Ken did a nice job of capturing the distinctions.

Thanks Gary!

Ken

[TLi]

If you change from XA-100.5 to XA-100.8, the fins of heat sink become vertical. The edge of the fins is rather sharp. Be careful not to cut yourself when moving these heavy amps.

I cut my forearm on several places when I try to move them by myself. Of course, if you have two pairs of hands and lift them from the front and back, then no problem.

[cma29]

Originally Posted by TLi

If you change from XA-100.5 to XA-100.8, the fins of heat sink become vertical. The edge of the fins is rather sharp. Be careful not to cut yourself when moving these heavy amps.

I cut my forearm on several places when I try to move them by myself. Of course, if you have two pairs of hands and lift them from the front and back, then no problem.

TLi - Thanks for the heads up. I'll be sure to be extra careful when moving those beasts around.

[cma29]

Originally Posted by PlanarSpeakerFan

Thanks Carlos. That is terrific news about your XA-100.8's, you'll be able to enjoy them over the holidays. I think you'll immediately notice the difference in clarity and imaging, it's significant. I can't wait to hear your impressions.

Best,
Ken

Thanks, Ken. I know is counter intuitive, but the holidays are not good for me because my 4-year-old is not in school and he consumes every waking moment we have when he's home.

At least I'll have a few days with the amps before school is out on Dec 19.

[Eisener Bart]

I am thinking to replace my power amp by Pass Labs.