Which Pre-Amp Pass Labs or Audio Research


I`m now using The Pass X350 Power Amp and a Audio Research upgraded LS22 preamp. I`ve also used the Ref5 both preamps sound great the Ref5 was just adorable much better control etc. Im wondering would the Pass Xp20 or Xp30 be a better way to go. I`v heard the AR preamps are much better than the Pass Labs Preamps.
813_sheridan

Showing 1 response by madfloyd

It all depends what type of sound you like. Pass is clean and timbre-accurate and very neutral.

AR has tubes and adds harmonics and bloom but timbre isn't accurate - it has more of a whitish sound, but beautiful just the same.

Personally I prefer the Pass but it's a matter of taste - apples vs oranges. Both are excellent.