i would like the resident pass experts here what combo i should get:
-Pass Labs XP-20 Preamp and XP-25 Phono
or
-Pass Labs XP-30 Peeamp and XP-15 Phono
looking for maximum fidelity and value.
No matter which route you take, be sure to upgrade the throw away Pass umbilical cords to the Revelation Audio Cryogenic Silver DB-25 umbilicals. I did and it takes the XP-20 to another level. I mentioned this on another forum, and a member did the complete upgrade on a Pass XP-3 and XP-25 setup, and is now a big fan. He currently is upgrading his ICs and USB to the Revelation models. I haven't gone that far yet, as I love my Shunyatas.
They don't make Pass umbilical cables.
Hi Jeffrey,
I had the XP-30 in my system for over a year. First with the XA-100.5 monoblocks and then with the XA-100.8 monoblocks. It is a wonderful sounding preamp. I much preferred its organic musicality to the presentation of the XP-20. The sonics with the XA-100.5 were to die for.
Best,
Ken
Interesting feedback, thanks. I currently have XA100.5's with an XP-20 and have been tinkering with the idea of an XP-30 and maybe the 100/160.8's. May wait on the .8's a bit and see what the xp-30 brings to the .5's over the xp-20.
Hi Jimmy,
That sounds like a good plan. But keep in mind, it's all very subjective, it largely depends on what kind of sound you want. The XP-30 sounds very organic, almost tube-like in its presentation, very similar to the XA-100.5. That's why I think they have tremendous synergy together. The XA-100.8 sounds quite a bit different from the XA-100.5 in my opinion. More clear and transparent but less warmth and less tube-like.
Best,
Ken
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