Which preamp- Pass Labs X1 vs Cary SLP2002


I'm moving 2 channel music away from my HT pre/proc, and I think I've narrowed down my preamp choices to the above, but I am unable to demo, as I am in a rural area.
Associated equipment-
Pass Labs X350 amplifier
Arcam FMJ23 CDP
Proac Response 2.5 spkrs.

I like my Pass amplification, and think there may be something to 'synergy' design from a single manufacturer (and the avail deals on the old style X1's are tempting), but I've also heard thet Proacs 'love tubes'....

Any help in decision making would be appreciated.
Thanks!
jillbailey4d10

Showing 1 response by joeabrams

Dear Jill,

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but the Cary and the Pass X350 are not a good match. The output impedance of the Cary is 440 ohm (single-ended); the single-ended input impedance of the Pass is 10 K ohm. In order to be a good match, the output impedance of the pre would hv to be 100 ohms or less -- even 200 ohms would not be too bad, but at 440 ohms into 10 k ohms, you'll get some loss of dynamics and some truncation of frequencies at the extremes.

Best,
Joe