Exploring Preamp options for the Pass XA25

I mentioned this in your other thread but maybe check out the Truth preamp from Ed Schillings. It can come with remote and is compatible with just about any source and can drive anything. I have a preamp with unity gain but no remote so I'm considering getting a Truth myself to go with my Pass Aleph J.

This Rogue Audio RP-1 falls below your $2500 budget. It includes a remote!
https://store.acousticsounds.com/d/111267/Rogue_Audio-RP-1_Preamplifier_with_Phono-Pre_Amps

     Hi Coach, With that budget you could get a Supratek Chardonney for $2000., or a Supratek Cabernet for $3000. Do a search here on audiogon and read about their pre's, LOTS of information about them! 
I have a Dual Cabernet that I plan on having a long time because it is so good I don't feel the need to improve that area of my system anymore.
They do come up used every so often, so I would keep an eye out if I were you.Good Luck, TISH

Coach, as you know, I truly am happy with my Luminous unit. The web site, on the ordering / building page, requires some information. ( 1 ) output voltage and impedance of sources ( 2 ) input sensitivity and input impedance of power amp ( 3 ) sensitivity of speakers......( this can all be changed for a nominal fee, if equipment changes ). My unit is the Walker Mod Axiom II, single ended, 3 pr. inputs and 2 pair outputs, with the remote. Again, it is audibly invisible. I cannot speak for comparisons with other recent passive units, but with my research, and reading, this replaced some top tier preamps in my arsenal of equipment. I do not hear it, which, is what I wanted. I have owned other passives, back in the day, and I am hearing all there is to hear from my sources, as cleanly, as I can imagine. Unit works great with every amp I own, and feel, your XA25, with the efficiency of your Zu’s, will do it all, for you, with this combination, " IF ", you do not want to add color, warmth, or editorializing, of your recorded music, and just want, exactly, the details, of what the musicians and producers, expressed, in the recordings. The man at Luminous to speak with is Tim Stinson....A true gentleman, who took a good amount of time with me, before ordering. I do not get a commission from Luminous, as, I am simply, a very happy customer / listener. What is on the recordings, is what you hear......Good luck with your adventure.....Always, and Enjoy ! MrD.