Price Paid:  $1995.00 from Reno HiFI

Summary:
I purchased this amplifier as factory-reconditioned (essentially in brand-new condition). I needed a 3-channel amplifier to go along with my 2-channel Pass X350.5. Three channel amplifiers are becoming harder to find and this is the only one that Pass makes. Its voicing is close enough the behemoth 350.5 to allow it to drive the center and surround speakers. .
Like most of the Pass X series, there is need for adequate ventilation around the amplifier. Since it is much smaller than the higher power X-series, it is easier to place in a surround system setting.
Over the time that I have integrated this amplifier into my system, I have become impressed with what great value it is for the sound quality received.
Pass does make a 5-channel amplifier (X-5). For those like myself who already have a high-quality stereo front-end, the X-3 is great alternative.

Strengths:
Quiet operation. Ability to drive complex loads with lots of headroom. Sounds more powerful than rating would indicate. Reasonably small footprint allows flexible placement in multichannel systems. Built like a small tank.

Weaknesses:
Generates a fair amount of heat which makes ventilation essential in any placement.
Tight corners for speaker cable binding posts (rear handles are an obstacle).

Price Paid:  $2300.00 from Audiogon

Summary:
I have been on a long search for a 3 channel amplifier. I listen primarily to two channel, so it had to be on par with other quality two channel amps and I did not want mono's Well, after owning and demoing many, I feel I found the best one. The modular design of the Theta and Bryston 9 just did not do it for me, with their more clinical sound. Having owned the Classe, I never warmed up to the amps, or its sound. The Pass amp gives a warmth and level of detail that I had never heard out of my system. I typically don't buy into audiophile jargon but the amp really did open up the sound stage in a level I never thought possible at this level. So, I like the amp, a lot! Now I need to find another hobby as now there is nothing to replace or upgrade! System Amp: Pass 3x Speakers: Joseph 22si Cables: Analysis Plus Oval 9's Cd Player: Arcam Preamp: Have been many, but with the Pass - EAD, Creek and finally a Naim AV2!

Strengths:
Sound, most important Detail, warmth, etc... Looks..

Weaknesses:
Coming of stand by mode, it takes about a half hour to "warm up" and for the amp to really sing. (Very imporant if you demo) Size. Gets hot, real hot. Looks...

Similar Products Used:
Rotel, Classe CAV-75, Bryston

Price Paid:  $0.00

Summary:
X3 is basically a three channel X150. The performance is similar. I own an X150 and an X3 to drive five B&W speakers (N803, N805 & HTM1). I love the details, the clarity and the sweetness of Pass Labs amp. My old amp was a Mark Levinson 334. Compare the ML and Pass in similar price range, I would recommend Pass any time. X3 has only 15 watts, but the wide head room enable it to push my B&W effortlessly.

Strengths:
Solid build, extremly good support, beautiful sound.

Weaknesses:
None found. The only thing I did was replacing the power cable with a Cardas.

Similar Products Used:
Mark Levinson 334