2. amps-preamps
  3. 1143389051

Preamp to go with a Pass Labs X250 ?

I upgraded B&K Ref 200.2 to Pass X250 and I am unpleasantly surprised that the only improvement I hear is in authority of sound. I am sure my Pre B&K PT5 and CD MF X-RAY V3 are to blame. I have an opportunity to purchase Pass X1 for $2300 or X2.5 for $1700. Can I go wrong with either one? Is X1 a good step up from X2.5? Eventualy I would like to hear some Tube preamps ( CJ LS17, AR LS16 or 25, Aesthetix Calypso when the price comes down a bit and maybe others), but need to decide now on Pass Labs and didn't see any reviews on ether preamp.
CD player upgrade will come next.
Thanks to anyone replying...
mak358
3 responses Add your response
ferrari
617 posts
 
Finally discuss with Nelson Pass - Nuff said.
bigkidz
3,387 posts
 
The X-1 is a neutral sounding preamp and will not add the tube sound that you mention. The best preamp that I have heard with the X-250 was the Tom Evans Vibe (without the upgraded power supply), it smoked all the others that I tried (12 in total). I also would consider the new version of the H-Cat, as I hear it may be better then the Vibe but have not heard one myself.

Ferrari, I don't know where you heard that the Pass gear does not work with tube preamps, that is just plain wrong. I have used many with the X-250 and even the passive Sonic Euphoria preamp worked very well with the X-250.

Do a search this has been covered before.

Happy Listening.
ferrari
617 posts
 
I would keep in the Pass Labs line of preamps. Also consider Klyne as well as Jeff Rowland. If you plan to play vinyl, then the Klyne is my overall choice.

Usually tube preamps do not match well with Nelson Pass designed gear. There much better matched for solid state.
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