2. amps-preamps
  3. 187627-16670

Tube preamp for pass labs ?

I recently bought a brand new Pass Labs x250.8. It seems to be finally broke in after about 800 hours. I’m using a good preamp, the BAT VK-33se. I’m curious what other tube preamps others are using with this amp? 
one thing I did was bought inexpensive Wireworld stratus power cables on Sale for $116 shipped brand new for amp, preamp, dac, and server. They seem to have helped settle my system down quite a bit. I really like these inexpensive cords. 
but, again what tube preamps are you owners of the 250.8 using?

TIA for any info given. 
Starboard

starboard
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,842 posts
 

The BAT is excellent….. i would look elsewhere in the system for improvement….

cbrez
37 posts
 

While not running a Pass anywhere your wattage, I have a Linear Tube Audio microZOTL level 2 with my XA25. It’s a great combination to my ears. The LTA is not as warm sounding as some other tube preamps, but is dynamic, great soundstage, and very natural sounding overall. The class A Pass has a bit of warmth to it (besides thermal), so they mate very well in my system.

newwater
14 posts
 

I found after many tried. CAT SL1 mk3 Line Stage with upgraded caps & wiring. Still sounds as good as any, that’s why it’s still around and a winner! Pass needs a great tube preamp to hear its resolve. 

The next positive surprise and very musical with inner details are Allnic preamps  musical & smooth.  

 

mesch
3,410 posts
 

Check out Aric Audio online. If interested follow up with a call. Great 6SN7 line stages. Tube rectified, point to point wired. Aric is great to deal with. 

I use one of his preamps with my Pass XA-25. 

carlsbad2's avatar
carlsbad2
1,382 posts
 

Does "finally broken in" imply you weren't happy with it at first?

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