2. amps-preamps
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Pass XP12. Tame, Anemic?

Hi,
just got a Pass xp 12 pre and it seems very “tame” “un-dynamic” it’s very nice and transparent but rather bland and doesn’t seem “alive” kind of “sleepy@.  I also expected more and tighter bass than my 6h30 tube pre.  I have on a trial and awaiting a LTA mz3 next week to compare.  Anybody experience this? Is the xp22 noticeably more dynamic? I’m pariing with Pass xa25 and Klipsh Cornwalls.  I never would have thought I had to worry about the Cornwalls sounding too tame. 
Thanks for any perspective 
caglioti

Showing 3 responses by caglioti

caglioti OP
33 posts
 
Using Blue Jeans rca cables.  It’s a demo, not sure how many hours on it. I’ve had it turned on for about 24 hrs. Yes I thought I wouldn’t be able to over tame the horns...but I think I have.
Erik, I respect a lot of your info, what are your reasons for not having high regard for Pass? I really would like to hear your general thoughts on this brand.  I am researching Luxman, I have the impression they are generally a more neutral, dynamic sound? 
caglioti OP
33 posts
 
I will continue to leave on and evaluate.  I have a LTA mz3 coming next week, interested in Don Sachs and Aric Audio Motherload, (wonder how the Sachs and Aric compare). I’ve had a Prima Luna, a little “mushy”. Side note, I’m starting to wonder if the Xa25 is has limited bass and treble, despite great midrange. I haven’t compared many amps 
caglioti OP
33 posts
 

@gladmo I sent the xp12 back and replace with Aric Audio Motherload. At the same time I tried a LTA mz3.  The Aric and LTA were similar sounding, the Pass just seemed to take away dynamics. Maybe those of us with extremely dynamically capable speakers see the difference more, I’m not sure. The Pass was transparent and quiet, but just seemed to polite and restrained. I’ve heard this sentiment repeated from several horn speaker people.  The designer , I can’t remember his name, has stated the Xp 22 is more dynamic than the xp12.   Steve  Gutenberg  has a Xp 30 with his Cornwall 4’s, and he’s hinted in some comparison videos that other preamps can be livelier sounding.

I’m not a cable denier, and have experimented with cables, but I can’t imagine cables making enough difference to change my experience enough.

Ted

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