Suitable tube preamp for pass labs x250

I posted your question in reverse just recently. Cary slp98 and what amp to recommend and some suggested the pass labs such as yours. Could be had for half of your low end price. I,m very pleased with it myself and when I get a better amp such as yours I know it will improve that much more. There are alot to choose from. Have a friend who has the Shindo Monbrisson which although more dollars is a great option if it suites your tastes.Can,t comment on how the Monbrison sounds with solid state amp as his is tubed and it sounds excellant. I tried the calypso (Dealers demo)as a loaner to try at home and descided on the cary but I certainly wouldn,t knock the calypso it just didn,t work as well in my system like it did in the dealers with the Atlas amp. The Cary SLP05 would be a good option as well.That I have heard with a pass labs 250.5 . Only the cost stopped me from the last two mentioned unfortunately. 4000 to 6000 really broadens your choices. Good luck and enjoy. Cheers

Thanks guys!

One of my options was Cary SLP-05.
Then I had in mind CAT SL-1 Ultimate Mk I and was offered CJ ART... Anyone has any idea how they compare?

The CAT Ultimate mk1 is my brothers choice. Has only vynil and an an old tube tuner for source and no digital at all with early 70,s era klipsh speakers. VERY VERY SWEET. Another good option and in your price range. Can,t comment on CJ as I have not listened to any of there products. Cheers

Definitely go with a true balanced pre-amp. I ended up with a BAT VK3ix After my search for a pre to match my X150. I liked it better than Pass's own X2.5 pre.