Amp/Preamp Asylum: REVIEW: Pass Laboratories Aleph 30 Amplifier (SS) by chrishenrici@starpower.net

Model:	Aleph 30
Category:	Amplifier (SS)
Suggested Retail Price:	$2000
Description:	30 Watt Stereo Amp
Manufacturer URL:	Pass Laboratories
Manufacturer URL:	Pass Laboratories

Review by chrishenrici@starpower.net ( A ) on April 09, 2004 at 19:07:53
IP Address: 216.15.47.66

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for the Aleph 30

The 30 wpc single ended class A Aleph 30 has been discontinued (Along with the entire Aleph line) by Pass labs. There is "closeout" pricing. The amp is available either new or used for relatively cheap ($1400 new or about $1000 used). Some think this amp is'nt much to look at, but I kind of like its bat mobile look, with the black winged heat sinks on the side and blue LED. I previously had a tube amp, but got tired of the drawbacks of tubes, the Pass seemed to fit the bill for an affordable no fuss amp. It runs hot, but not as hot as the MV55 tube amp it replaced. Those considering this amp should be aware that it IS 30 watts and that only goes so far, but it is loud enough for my needs, in my system and room it is capable of going pretty loud, though I usually listen at moderate levels. A preamp with plenty of voltage drive helps considerably (I use a grounded grid tube preamp). The sound is smooth, dimensional and detailed. This is the best solid state amp I have heard. It is not bright but is revealing of the source, the distortion in a recording is not "sugar coated", I find all but the worst recordings to be enjoyable through this amp. In comparison to the MV55 tube amp, the Aleph 30 was cleaner sounding, not as bright, had more detail and tighter bass.........the MV55 had a better midrange overall (as tubes usually do), in particular its rendition of piano. With guitar, the quicker attack of the Aleph gave it the edge. Vocals are richer with the MV55, but the vocal inflections of the singer (and emotion) are more easily heard with the Aleph. The Aleph was a bit more dimensional, both have a great soundstage though. I'm very happy with this amp and think it is very good value also. Its musical and detailed with a quick response. Bass is good for a low power amp, but bass "slammers" should probably look elsewhere. The solid state Aleph 30 will not do everything tubes do. It has some of the qualities of a tube amp, but tubes and solid state are two different animals, though generally there seems to be a convergence over the last 10 years, tubes have gotten less fat and lush and solid state has gotten smoother. Class A solid state is generally considered to be the closest approach. You have to decide which you like better. The Aleph 30 perfroms well with all types of music, especially jazz and classical. All but the worst rock recordings are enjoyable.With the grounded grid tube preamp kit/Aleph 30 power amp combo I am getting excellent sound quality in just about every area for less than what the MV55 cost alone. Listen for yourself if possible, but in my opinion there is no better solid state amp for $1400, just be sure its power rating suits your needs.

Product Weakness: heat output, power consumption
Product Strengths: Smooth, detailed and dimensional.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Aleph 30
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	Grounded Grid
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Arcam CD 23 ,Rega 3
Speakers:	Monitor Audio Studio 2se
Cables/Interconnects:	DH labs
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Jazz, rock, Classical
Room Size (LxWxH):	15 x 13 x 9
Time Period/Length of Audition:	3 mons.
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	Monster
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	heat output, power consumption
Product Strengths:	Smooth, detailed and dimensional.