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Pre-amp suggestions for Thiel 2.4/Pass Labs XA30.5

Looking to get a pre-amp to mate with my Thiel 2.4s and the Pass Labs XA-30.5. I've got about at $2500 limit and need a phono section (or need to to pick up a MM phono stage in addition... but still stay under the $2500 limit). I'm currently using a Classe CAP-151's pre-amp section, but it seems that it's getting outclassed a bit by the new additions. Any suggestions? I'm open to both tube and SS options.
cal3713

Showing 2 responses by doggiehowser

doggiehowser
672 posts
 
I had a Thiel 2.4SE which I traded up for a 3.7

I've heard it with different combinations of Pre and Power before.

For my money, I found the Bel Canto Pre3 and REF500M to be a good pairing. I found the Bel Canto

If the budget could stretch further, I'd use a tube preamp which adds lushness and some 3dimensionality. I've heard it partner well with LAMM preamps and also with my Audio Research Ref5 and now 5SE. I am not a fan of overly warm and slow music reproduction and like dynamics so these two have been a great combination for me when I use SS power amps.
doggiehowser
672 posts
 
I have been using a Bel Canto REF1000M with my Thiel CS3.7s and the 2.4SEs before that.

I have heard the Electrocompaniet Nemos and they sound incredible with the Thiels.

I am a bit curious how the Plinius SA-Reference would sound with them. That delivers 100W of Class A into 8 ohms in stereo mode.
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