The Absolute Sound Best Power Amplifiers: $20,000 $50,000 REVIEW by TAS Staff Oct 13, 2023 Pass Laboratories is on demo at Absolute Phase, Bengaluru (Exclusive India Distributor) Pass Labs XA160.8- $28,600/pr. The 160W, Class A XA160.8 monoblock is yet another inspiring and indisputable success from the mind of Nelson Passa man who for the past four-and-a-half decades (his first commercial product was released in 1975) consistently rises to the challenge of besting himself. At the frequency extremes, the XA160.8s transient speed and pitch definition are superb. At the same time, its mids are extraordinary, possessing a purity, texture, and bloom that reminded reviewer GW of the best tube designs. Its paramount strengths are engaging resolution and transparency, with no vestige of glare or the faintest hint of edge. A genuine triumph. GW, 259
