I’ve since replaced the Wilson Audio Watt Puppy 7 (WP7) with their Alexia 2, and the Pass Labs XP22 Pre changed to a XP32 and again to a XS Pre.
With approximately a doubling of internal cabinet volume, newer drivers, and ~10 years of development know-how, it’s no surprise that the Alexia provides a larger soundstage and better articulated micro details than the WP7. In short, if you like the Wilson WP, you’ll love the Alexia 2. It’s not a radical change but simply better in every way (except in the effort to move and set them up!).
For the Preamp, the move from the XP22 to XP32 was not small. I was surprised by how much more info seems to get through punctuated by much better detail. It’s hard to describe but hearing is believing. I was very satisfied with the 32 but when an opportunity came to get a nearly new XS Pre curiosity got the better of me. Upon receipt, I played a half dozen familiar tracks on the 32 before swapping to the XS. Just before listening I remember thinking I’ll just resell it if I cannot hear much difference! But within the first track i was left stunned by how lush the same tracks played. The edges to every note seemed softer and the quiet between more pronounced. While the 32 is extraordinary, the XS lives up to its flagship status and is a clear step beyond. It also has the largest volume knob I’ve ever seen!
Lastly, I’ve since swapped all of my Audioquest interconnects / power cords and Transparent speaker cables for Nordost Tyr 2. While I know this is a rabbit hole and I won’t argue that it’s worth it, I’m also not going back. I think it’s quite true that with the right system synergies everything contributes to the performance. It’s up to the listener to decide their priorities.
I did all of my comparisons between speakers and pre amps before and after the cable swap, so all of the above opinions account for that.
Just wanted to share my experience as I appreciate so many I read from other members.