Rhea vs Pass XP-15

Almarg's remarks make good sense. I note that the "Signature" version of the Rhea uses coupling caps that are twice the value of those in the non-Signature version. (4uF vs 2uF, respectively.) The larger caps would go some distance to ameliorate the problem noted by the Stereophile tester. That is a worthwhile upgrade and could be done rather cheaply if one knows how to solder and owns a non-Sig Rhea. The output impedance at 20Hz would be halved.

Dhcod,

Yes very well put and clear! I totally agree that the Rhea puts the flesh on the bone sort of speak!

I understand that the XP-15 is pretty close to the XP-25. If that is the case, it's a world class performer with great loading options.

Pass Labs service guy Kent English feels the Xp-15 sounds the same as the XOno.

The XOno and XP-25 separate power supplies do seem to reduce noise levels over most any another phono stage..

Perhaps the XP-25 is in it's own league.

I have the XOno and could not be happier driving XA60.5's into Maggie 3.6's.

I also have the XOno. Someone told me that the XP-25 is basically designed for those who have/need two phono inputs because they have two tables or two arms. It's also for those who like the convenience of front panel dials for easier loading and gain changes. The internal dip switches of the XOno are inconvenient at best. However, there are many more options. I load my Supreme at 84 ohms. That setting is not an option on the XP-25, but it is on the XP-15.

The XP-15 does have the same outrageous number of loading options that the XOno has, and they are even on the back panel so you don't have to remove the top plate for changes.

I don't know how the three compare sonically as I've never had the XP series in my system. It may be time to call Reno HiFi to do a demo for the cost of shipping. It's the only way to know for sure how it sounds in one's system and if it has the right loading settings for your particular cartridge/wiring combination.