Looking for a pre-amp (Pass, ARC, BAT, Sim, PS Audio)


Hello,

I would like some recommendations regarding what preamp to try in my system where I currently have a PS Audio DSD, Pass x250.8 and a pair of Focal Diva Utopias with all synergistic research interconnects. Just sold a PS Audio BHK preamp which was pretty nice, but would like something a bit faster without compromising the stage of the BHK. By-the-way, it was noticeably better having the BHK in the system then not having the preamp at all.

I am considering the ARC 5, 5SE, LS28, or the BAT VK42SE, 52SE, 33SE, or the Simadio P7, P8 Or Pass XP20, 22 next. I don’t see my-self zeroing in on any other brand/models right now.  I listen all all kind of music on Vinyl, CDs and stream Tidal.

Would you mind sharing your personal experiences with any of the above preamps (especially to contrast and compare these models/brands together). Would really appreciate any advise on which of the above preamps to go for. Thank you!
Ag insider logo xs@2xjmarshak

Yes, thanks @bpoletti. I run all balanced in my system. I find it to usually sound better (in my system) to SE, even at short wire runs.  At the least with XLR, I usually do not need to increase the volume as high :) But seriously, I realize that most tube equipment is SE.  I guess that's one of the reasons why BAT and ACR are on my short list.

@4425 I used to use a subwoofer but after adding a synergistic research PowerCell I found that I no longer needed more base/slam.  I was using a different line conditioner prior to that and it was apparently constraining lower frequencies.  I think that the larger point that you are making about these preamps is an important one however. Thank you.

Post removed 
I use the Pass 250.8 with a SimAudio 740P and I think they sound awesome together. I don't know how the 740P compares to the P7/P8.

The 740P replaced a Pass X10 and a Hegel P20.