Pass labs XA-160.8 monos - or -  Mark Levinson 536 monos for Magico's

fsmithjack

I own a VAC Signature MkIIse preamp with line and phono stage.  I don't think it can get too much better from a sonic perspective....BUT (and a real big BUT), at this price level, we are deep into diminishing incremental returns territory.  DIFFERENT sonic characteristics may be audible in comparison to other premium brands, but whether these differences are BETTER is purely a matter of subjective taste for varying sonic flavors.   

I did choose to listen to them both and then I purchased the Pass Labs 160.8 which I loved until I listened to the best amp I’ve ever heard. It absolutely blew mind and it let me sell both my preamp and mono blocks. I purchased the incredible Ypsilon Phaethon and I’ve not heard anything better including much more Ypsilon separates. I’ve never head a component thread the needle between tubes and SS. It’s sounds like neither and both. It’s an end of the road component.

Absolutely neither ??

Not a fan of the Pass sound in general, and I've heard ML with Magico.  MEH!

I really think you need to expand your horizons here.

I just wrote and updated how I now own the absolutely outstanding Ypsilon Phaethon Integrated Amplifier which is one of the most unique and innovative amps made?