2. amps-preamps
  3. 172503-168388

Pass Labs XA25 without preamp (from a variable output source) vs INT25

Hi!

 

I just have a single source system (a DAC with a high quality variable output) so what would be the best aounding option? DAC direct to XA25 through the variable output or DAC with fixed output and an INT25?

Reading between lines it seems INT25 looses some transparency and gravitates to a warm sound compared to the very clean and transparent sound the XA25 provides. I love a transparent, rich and 3D sound but I don't want a lean sound. 


Anyone here uses the XA25 without preamp from a high quality variable output source?

 

Thanks!

 

 

joegt

Showing 2 responses by chorus

chorus
976 posts
 

My Experience- I had the XA25 with no Preamp-Ran thru the Oppo 205.

Loved it and shopped preamps with a tube. Decided the INT25-designed

to mate with each other-might be wisest so I moved up to the INT25.

I never felt the SQ improved with this move however.  I Added an AudioMirror

R2R DAC (with tubes) and fell in love again.

Bottom line- Use the XA25 sans pre if you can do it. 

Sorry I can not elaborate the differences as I sold one before receiving the 

other. (Rookie mistake)

chorus
976 posts
 

joeyg- My speakers are Tannoy FSM (monitors) from the late 80's.

That is the million dollar question. When the new INT arrived it needed

200-300 hours of burn in time so at first it was worse. My audio mentor friend

loves it as do I so all I can say with any certainty is what I stated- no improvement.

The Preamp section is said by the Pass people to be "Minimally invasive".

True enough as it has no Pre-out, no sub out. One output & 3 inputs.

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