Pass and ARC

You could do a lot worse. Bear in mind the performance with separates ultimately depends on the interconnect used between them. This could be bad, in the sense it adds cost. Or you could see it as a plus, in that your choice of IC will allow you some control over the combined result. Since it sounds like you're choosing these based on what they cost not how they sound. For sure you will have no problem driving the Klipsch with them!

How old is that Ref 2? If it’s early production it could date back 20 years so I’d want to make sure it’s in good working order before pulling the trigger. Technically it will certainly work together and there’s no impedance mismatch or the like but the Ref 2 isn’t exactly the quietest tube preamp out there. Since you’re mainly listening to vinyl the noise issue could get more pronounced depending on your phono stage...and the Heresy IV’s at 99 dB sensitivity will let you hear the noise pretty easily.

My Altec's are 99 db sensitivity and my 1983 Audio Research SP8 preamp doesn't make any noise and I do use the phono stage on it. I doubt that Ref 2 is going to be an issue. ARC uses top notch parts in it's gear.
BillWojo

If the price is right, go for it! And now, behind Door Number 3 ...

Thank you for the replies/advise. Yes, Chuck, price is the deciding factor although both brands are on my wish list just not usually accessible in my income bracket. They are both in perfect working order so I think I will indeed pull the trigger. I guess my next step will be to find the right interconnects for my taste. Cheers

Rob

I would think your choice of tubes will make more of a difference than interconnects, as long as you are choosing quality cables.

Jump on this combo ASAP!!

Just use any decent quality interconnect and your good. If an interconnect starts to alter the sound it's a sign that there is something wrong with it.
BillWojo

@billwojo   That SP8 is certainly a classic!  Still using original power supply caps etc?  

The Pass is the surer bargain for longevity, that much is clear.

I own the XA30.5, also paired with a tube preamp (McIntosh c2500).
The pass has been in my system longer than any other piece of equipment and i consider it a "forever" amp. I don't think you'll be disappointed. I've powered several speakers with it and have settled on 94db efficient Tannoys. The amp has way more power than these speakers require. It should have no probelm powering your Klipsch.
.

Synergistic would be a nice match with those. Don't see an IC right now but the Cable Co usually has some. If you need a PC there is a killer deal on SR Master Couplers https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisa24fi-three-synergistic-research-a-c-master-coupler-power-cords... Hard to beat at $190!

Only one problem I can see with this upgrade and it may not even qualify
as a problem. But first- you do not identify what the aquisition cost of each piece would be. Post that and I may be able to offer counsel.

Don’t know about the AR Ref 2 with Pass amps, but I’m pairing the AR Ref 3 and AR Ref 5SE with Parasound Halo A21 and JC2 monoblocks with incredible results - hard to believe. Just incredible clarity, detail, resolution, imaging and soundstage with superb tone, tenor, texture and bass control - a very holographic, live sound.

I’ve been surprised by this combination - though, I suppose some of the credit must go to the Bryston BDP-3 & Schitt Yggdrasil DAC, which sound superb, even without the AR tube line stage - but, the tube line stage improved upon that combo even a great deal more. And... with either the Harbeth 30.1’s with Townshend Super-Tweeters, or Linkwitz Orion’s - to the point, that I doubt I could improve upon the sound a lot more. I’ve also been surprised that this combo has really awakened the 30.1’s, which initially hadn’t impressed me, but now have much better highs, resolution, and bass control with the Harbeth rich, organic sound.