Xs preamp

[MadFloyd]

As you say it depends on the implementation. IMHO adding a step motor with a belt and a controller that is not powered when the volume is not being actuated, as done by manufacturers such as Atmasphere or Ayre, will not affect sound quality.

Ironically in Sammy's case it was an Ayre preamp that he claimed was degrading the sound.

 

[Sammy T]

Sound quality noticeably changed using the remote control only. Using main unit controls seem to have no change. It does sound better with the display turned off.

 

[microstrip]

Sound quality noticeably changed using the remote control only. Using main unit controls seem have no change. It does sound better with the display turned off.

Can you disable the remote system in the KR-X preamplifier?

 

[Sammy T]

For critical listening sessions , remote control was just not used. Don't know if you can disable the remote function on this preamp, We just left it in the cabinet drawer .

 

[microstrip]

For critical listening sessions , remote control was just not used. Don't know if you can disable the remote function on this preamp, We just left it in the cabinet drawer .

And you are saying that taking the remote out of the drawer and pressing the volume keys is different from changing the volume manually?

 

[Sammy T]

Yes.

 

[microstrip]

Yes.

The only possible explanation is that after accepting a code the remote control receive circuit becomes active for a little time before idling - but once this time ends the sound should be similar to changing the volume manually. The control of the volume of the KR-X is all electronic using encoders - there is no manual direct control of the high quality internal mechanical rotary attenuators.

 

[JimmyS]

A lot. It's like the XP-25 on steroids. Detail is incredible all throughout. Bass is deeper and clearer. Layers of separation for complex music is fantastic. As you would expect for something that costs 3-4x.

That said, I'm selling all my Pass XS gear (I own the XS-150's as well) as I want to try tubes and can't afford to keep everything.

Ugh - Oh..... Flying into Boston for vacation, and better put the hammer down to get to Maine to avoid the gravitational pull towards Goodwins and this XS gear. I can just hear the wife "Why are we turning here, dont we have to catch the boat to the island?"

 

[GT Audio Works]

Sound Insight my NY dealer just received an XS pre, it will be part of the system we will be exhibiting at the upcoming Capital Audiofest in November. http://www.capitalaudiofest.com/
Cant wait to hear it at his home, he says it blows away anything he has had in his system to date.

 

[jeromelang]

the xs pre umbilical cords are indeed directional (same as what i found with the xs150)
when 1 channel the umbilical cord is correctly connected, and the other channel isn't, the imaging of both channels don't gel properly.
i could even tell which channel the umbilical cord needed to be swapped around, without doing any a/b comparisons.
the correct channel images taller and more recessed into the back of the speakers.
the wrong channel is more forward and images at a shorter height.

i see that Pass Labs have now decided to supply a new generation of umbilical cords that may only be connected in 1 single direction (judging by the photo below with "female" type connecter at the power supply box).

that can either be a good thing or a bad thing

if Pass labs still doesn't pre-determine the cable directionality before terminating the connecting plugs on them, then it will be really bad thing.