Pass Labs X-1 Preamp Questions:


Hi all,
These questions about the Pass Labs X-1 preamp are for people who own, have owned, or are very familiar with the Pass Labs X-1 preamp, with the full sized power supply:
1.Is the Pass Labs X-1 preamp sensitive to cables, and power cords? If so, what are the best brands to bring out the best this preamp has to offer?
2. Is the Pass X-1 sensitive to support feet, cones, blocks, or other items placed under it?
If so, what are the best things to put under it?
3. Does the Pass X-1 generally sound best with the control unit stacked on top of the power supply, the power supply stacked on top of the control unit, or with the two units well seperated from one another, or, does it really matter that much either way?
4. Is the Pass X-1 sensitive to A/C plug orientation?
Also, does it generally sound better with the extra ground left working, or with the extra ground disconnected or defeated with a "cheater-plug" for example?
5. The Pass X-1 sounds really good in my system [see my system in my member name section of audiogon], but, compared to a Parasound P/LD-2000 preamp that I also own, the Pass X-1 seems to sound a tad thin, cool, and instruments and voices seem to have less weight, texture, body, solidity, and warmth. The bass also seems less solid. Are there any ways to diminish these things, or do you think that I may just be used to hearing possible colorations of the P/LD-2000 preamp?
6. Any other things to know about tweaking the sound of the Pass X-1?
Thanks in advance!
daltonlanny

Showing 1 response by 9rw

The people at Pass Labs told me that, from a sonics perspective, it makes no difference whether you stack the units or don't. They designed and built the preamp, have done experiments and they should know.

The X1 is one of the best, most neutral preamps anywhere near its price. I never found mine to be lacking in the bass or to sound thin or cool. As for power cords, you might try a Kimber Palladian PK-10. IMHO.