2. amps-preamps
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Pass X1??

I am using a Pass X1/X250 combo with nice results but am wondering if the x1 is one of those preamps to hang onto or is it so far obsolete that it could be easily beaten with a less expensive new preamp. My X1 sounds fine but have there been advances in preamps that make the X1 obsolete or is it a piece to hang onto for a long time. Mine is sounding good but as it is now the oldest component in my system I thought I'd ask. I recently got new digital which is indescribably better than I was used to and the digital I was used to was pretty good. I'm thinking the x1 may be a keeper because of it's simplistic design. I think if something goes wrong with the X1 that it will come across as obvious and not just degraded sound. I would consider the XP-10 but it does not have a tape out which is essential for my headamp. The X20 is simply far beyond reality due to price point. I guess my question more to the point is that if I sell my X1 for $2000 then what would far better it at the $2000 price point? I'm still thinking the X1 may be a keeper. It will require replaced chips as they are bound to go throughout the years but this is normal.
mitchb

Showing 4 responses by peterayer

peterayer
1,382 posts
 
I had the Pass Aleph P which I traded in for the X-1. The X-1 is much more neutral with better bass. I now have the XP-20 which I find to be quieter and more transparent. All of the Pass gear is great. They sound good, are very reliable and built to last. With the XP-20 I hear more inner detail resulting in more accurate timbre, more texture and better harmonics. Having said that, the X-1 is an outstanding value for $2,000. I have heard other preamps in my system, both SS and tubes. I have found that nothing sounds as good with a Pass amp as a Pass pre amp. You could consider trading it in at RENO HIFI for a used XP-10 or 20, but it would be expensive. I would hold onto it. Oddly, I like the looks/simplicity of the old remote. It was perfect for the Aleph P but became complicated to use for the functions of the X-1. The new remote works well, but is a bit too conventional for my taste and the buttons and print are tiny.
peterayer
1,382 posts
 
Tony,
You can do an in-home demo by calling RENO HIFI. I think there is a restocking fee plus shipping which shouldn't be bad for UPS ground if you choose not to buy. I've had great experience with Mark. I bought my XA.5 amps, and both the X1 and XP20 from him because there is no dealer in my area either.
peterayer
1,382 posts
 
I agree with Raquel's assessment of the X-1, but to imply that high-end two channel amps and pre amps have not improved much since the mid to late 90's is a stretch. One need only to look at Pass Labs. The XA.5 and XP series are clearly better than the older Aleph series. I've owned them both and they have gotten much better. The market may be smaller and the prices are outrageous, but the sonics have indeed improved, at least in terms of noise and transparency. Build quality and reliability, on the other hand, have always been quite good. I don't know as much about other high-end brands, but I'd think the same could be said for ARC, VTL and Spectral.
peterayer
1,382 posts
 
Curio,
Did you hear the XP-20 in other systems as well? I find it to be so transparent that it really reflects the character of what is in the rest of the system. I agree the mids are more refined. The lower noise floor relative to the X-1 also allows me to hear more detail and I find it has less of its own signature than the X-1 has. For example, the quality of particular recordings is more apparent. I found the X-1 very slightly cool/dry of neutral and that character was evident with all recordings in my system. The XP-20 sounds cleaner, smoother and clearer and yes, warmer on some recordings, but I think that warmth brings it closer to neutral than the cooler X-1, if you follow my thinking. The X-1 remains an excellent value and is of very top quality.
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