Results 1 to 20 of 20
Thread: New Pass XP-20 pre
-
June 29, 2013, 12:24 AM #1Senior Member
- Join Date
- May 2013
- Location
- Silicon Valley
- Posts
- 2,838
New Pass XP-20 pre
After upgrading the power and interconnect cables in both my two channel and HT, I planned to take it easy for a while and recuperate the spent retirement savings. However, I knew that once I started upgrading my hardware I was going to start first with the pre-amp. Tuesday, I had the opportunity to buy my first piece of "used" gear, which is a 2 week old 'demo' Pass Labs XP-20 for $2100 off list, and no sales tax (keep that quiet). Plus, I got to split the payment over two months with no surcharge. Well, that's all it took to reel me in, so I bought it, and it arrived Thursday.
It is hooked up, and burning in (no on/off switch). After one day it already has improved, and the dealer said after 5 days it reaches its peak. So far, I love it. Everything musically is better. Of course, for what it costs, it better be. However, I am building my retirement system now, and once I retire there will be no more stereo purchases.
This has got to be my last purchase this year. Otherwise I need an intervention.Bud
Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD
Pass XP-22 pre, X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers, SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR for source, Denali 2000 (2) for amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson four shelf maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits.
-
June 29, 2013, 04:14 AM #2Super Moderator
- Join Date
- Apr 2013
- Location
- NY
- Posts
- 18,726
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
Congratulations Bud! Pass makes awesome gear and I miss my XP-30. Sounds like Mark/Reno gave you a great deal. He's an awesome dealer, and right about the break in. Enjoy!
Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
-
June 29, 2013, 07:20 AM #3Senior Member
- Join Date
- Apr 2013
- Location
- State of Confusion
- Posts
- 3,788
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
Nice pre Bud. What amp(s) are you using this with?
Doug
-
June 29, 2013, 07:40 AM #4Audioshark
- Join Date
- Apr 2013
- Location
- Sarasota, FL
- Posts
- 30,107
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
Congrats!
My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
-
June 29, 2013, 08:36 AM #5Senior Member
- Join Date
- Apr 2013
- Location
- Oregon Coast
- Posts
- 3,428
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
looks great.
Jock
If you have integrity, nothing else matters. If you don't have integrity, nothing else matters.
---------
House: Naim ND555/2PS, Naim 552, Naim 500, Studer A80/Doshi V3, Magico M2s, 2 Magico Q-Sub 15s, Lumina IC/SC, Shunyata Everest and Omega PCs.
Workshop: Naim ND555/2 PS, VAC Master Pre, VAC Sig 200iQ, Border Patrol pre/power, Avant Garde Duo Mezzo XD, 2 Magico Q-Sub 15s, Shunyata IC/SC, Shunyata Typhon QR/Triton V3/Sigma PCs.
-
June 29, 2013, 08:42 AM #6Behavior Moderator (be nice police!)
- Join Date
- Apr 2013
- Location
- Lake Country, Georgia
- Posts
- 4,347
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
Congrats Bud, I had an XP10, it was just a fantastic preamp. I hope you enjoy it for many years !!
Mark
Kharma DB9 Signature
Pass Labs XP32......incoming
Pass Labs X350.8
Esoteric N-05XD
VPI Avenger with Magnetic Drive
Manley Chinook Phono Pre
Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge
Kharma Elegance speaker cables
Kharma Elegance interconnects
REL Subs
-
June 29, 2013, 08:58 AM #7Senior Member
- Join Date
- Apr 2013
- Location
- Los Angeles
- Posts
- 240
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
Good choice and congrats!
working progress
-
June 29, 2013, 10:07 AM #8Member
- Join Date
- Apr 2013
- Location
- SE PA
- Posts
- 52
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
You'll be very happy with the XP-20, it's a great preamp!
Pass Labs X250.5, Pass Labs XP-20, Aerial Acoustics 7T, Auralic Vega, Benchmark DAC1 USB, Squeezebox Touch, CAPS 3.0 Zuma, Parasound JC-3+, VPI Traveler, Ortofon 2M Bronze, Kimber-Mogami-Blue Jeans Cables, GIK and custom room treatment, Torus Power
Dave
-
June 29, 2013, 12:25 PM #9Senior Member
- Join Date
- May 2013
- Location
- Silicon Valley
- Posts
- 2,838
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
It replaced a Cambridge-Audio 840E, and the amps are two Cambridge-Audio 840W in bridged mono mode. To be honest, I was very happy with the 840E, but I got tired of waiting for Cambridge to release the next generation. At this point in time, it appears Cambridge has abandoned the high-end, and is focused on the MP3 crowd.
Originally Posted by dlb2
Bud
Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD
Pass XP-22 pre, X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers, SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR for source, Denali 2000 (2) for amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson four shelf maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits.
-
June 29, 2013, 02:47 PM #10Senior Member
- Join Date
- May 2013
- Location
- Sydney
- Posts
- 1,782
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
Congrats on the xp-20. It really is a superb preamp.
Source: Technics SP10mk3 - Thales Simplicity II, TW Raven AC-3 - Graham Phantom, SME 3012-R, Exclusive P3,,Linn LP12 - Naim ARO
Cartridges: Lyra Atlas Lambda SL, Lyra Etna SL, Lyra Delos, Dynavector XV-1s,Technics EPC100mk4, Ortofon A90, GM Royal, GM Classic, Denon ESC'd 103R, DL-S1, Audio Technica AT25, OC9II, Linn ESC'd Troika
Phono Stage: Phasemation EA-1200, Accuphase C-37,TW Acustik phono
EQ: DEQX HDP-4
Preamp: D'Agostino HD, conrad johnson GAT,
Amps: conrad johnson teflon premier 8a's, D'Agostino Momentum S250
Speakers: Wilson Maxx3
-
June 29, 2013, 09:13 PM #11Senior Member
- Join Date
- Apr 2013
- Posts
- 3,597
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
Congrats, Bud! Pass makes awesome gear! Their midrange is to die for.
Allen
-
June 29, 2013, 09:35 PM #12Senior Member
- Join Date
- May 2013
- Location
- Silicon Valley
- Posts
- 2,838
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
Thanks all. After two days I am getting acclimated to it. It certainly is a move up in musical detail. It always amazes me how something can be changed and you start hearing the same music in a different and better way. Right now, the single biggest change is more bass, and it is more focused and precise. I mostly listen to classical string quartet type music, and on some pieces I hear low end that I do not remember being there before. If not classical then I play female jazz singers, and it seems as if the bass player is in the room as you hear the music in a precise pace, and hear his fingers pluck the strings. Originally Posted by socfan12
Congrats, Bud! Pass makes awesome gear! Their midrange is to die for.
Between adding Shunyata Ztron Anaconda interconnects three weeks ago, and now this, the whole musical experience has become quite clear. Not so much in a harsh manner, but more in an unmuffled manner. The source is a Bryston BDP1 digital file player and a Bryston BDA2 DAC, and now they can really show their capabilities.Bud
Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD
Pass XP-22 pre, X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers, SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR for source, Denali 2000 (2) for amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson four shelf maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits.
-
June 29, 2013, 09:52 PM #13Senior Member
- Join Date
- Apr 2013
- Posts
- 3,597
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
Bud, how do like the Shunyaya zitron ICs? I've been thinking about them lately. The Zitron anaconda PC is awesome!
Allen
-
June 29, 2013, 10:44 PM #14Senior Member
- Join Date
- May 2013
- Location
- Silicon Valley
- Posts
- 2,838
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
Originally Posted by socfan12
I love them. They replaced MIT Shotgun S1.3 ICs. Everything from Shunyata I have used has been a step up. Other than the Shunyata Python CX power cables on my amps, every other cable in the stereo is a Ztron model, Anaconda ICs and speaker, Anaconda PC to the Triton, and Cobra on the gear.Bud
Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD
Pass XP-22 pre, X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers, SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR for source, Denali 2000 (2) for amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson four shelf maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits.
-
July 4, 2013, 10:15 PM #15Senior Member
- Join Date
- May 2013
- Location
- Silicon Valley
- Posts
- 2,838
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
This isn't a review, but after a week it is coming along nicely. At low levels it complements the Shunyata Anaconda ICs I added a few weeks ago. Everything is much more detailed, and precise, within the soundstage, and the soundstage appears a bit wider. This is mostly with classical music at low (70-80db) levels. Female jazz CDs show better bass, and greater clarity in their voices. I have heard a few times where it seems as if their singing occasionally goes off key, and I do not remember noticing that before.
Anyway, the biggest change so far appeared last night, and left me sitting with my mouth open, and laughing with pleasure, since it was an absolute surprise. Since today is the 4th I was able to stay up last night, listen to tunes, and drink beer. After about 4 beers I get into a R&R mode, so I starting playing some. When I cranked up the volume the soundstage literally expanded out to me. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. It was huge, and filled in the whole triangle of speakers and chair. Instruments were at various levels, depths, and locations within it. I had never experienced anything like that before. This was way beyond a modest improvement. It is huge, and makes me glad I made this purchase.
Now I need to get some work bonuses, and a lotto winning, so I can get a pair of X600.5 amps. Does it ever stop?
Bud
Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD
Pass XP-22 pre, X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers, SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR for source, Denali 2000 (2) for amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson four shelf maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits.
-
July 4, 2013, 10:19 PM #16Audioshark
- Join Date
- Apr 2013
- Location
- Sarasota, FL
- Posts
- 30,107
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
Do you want it to stop? Originally Posted by BlueFox
Does it ever stop?
Great write up. Pass is awesome.My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
-
July 4, 2013, 10:19 PM #17Super Moderator
- Join Date
- Apr 2013
- Location
- NY
- Posts
- 18,726
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
Congratulation Bud,
I just love those Ah ha moments. Wonderful!Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
-
August 4, 2013, 04:06 PM #18Senior Member
- Join Date
- Apr 2013
- Location
- Lakeland, Florida
- Posts
- 1,056
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
Congrats on your XP-20! I do love my PASS master pieces!!!
George
-----------------------
Aurender ACS10 Music Server > Holo Audio May KTE R2R Ladder DAC > Pass Labs XP-30 Preamp > Pass Labs XA160.5 Class A Mono Blocks > Martin Logan Renaissance ELS 15A Speakers
Powered By 2X BPT 3.5 Signature Plus Ultra Isolators | Shunyata Research Hydra Triton + Typhon | Shunyata Hydra 2 Power Conditioner
-
August 4, 2013, 05:40 PM #19Senior Member
- Join Date
- Jul 2013
- Location
- Florida
- Posts
- 3,850
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
Congrats on the XP-20!
Mike
-
August 4, 2013, 10:23 PM #20Senior Member
- Join Date
- Apr 2013
- Posts
- 1,621
Re: New Pass XP-20 pre
Good stuff, I auditioned the XP-20, it's a great pre-amp & sounds like you are really enjoying the step-up in quality/performance.
Reply With Quote
AudioShark - The Best High End Audio Discussion forum.
AudioShark forum is a leading forum site for High End Audio Discussion, Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater System Discussion, Best Home Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater Installation Discussion etc.
The AudioShark forum was created for sharing the passion of high-end Audio. We have Audiophiles from all over the world participating and sharing their knowledge. From novice to experts, you will find a friendly environment for discussing about High End Audio, Stereo System, Home Theater System, Home Stereo System, Home Theater Installation, Amplifiers, Speakers, Subwoofers, Integrated System, Acoustic treatments & Digital Room Corrections and many more.
At AudioShark, we also have incorporated an exciting Marketplace where members can peruse terrific buys on used gear, as well as meet dealers and discuss the purchase of new gear.
We are as crazy about this hobby as you are! So come on in and join us! Audioshark.org the Friendliest Audio Forum!
Industry Participation Disclosure : The owner and administrator of Audioshark is the owner of Suncoast Audio LLC in Sarasota Florida. Suncoast Audio has a full brick and mortar presence in Sarasota with several great show rooms with many world class brands. More information can be found at http://www.suncoastaudio.com
Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.
Sincerely,
The Audioshark.org Team
AudioShark forum is a leading forum site for High End Audio Discussion, Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater System Discussion, Best Home Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater Installation Discussion etc.
The AudioShark forum was created for sharing the passion of high-end Audio. We have Audiophiles from all over the world participating and sharing their knowledge. From novice to experts, you will find a friendly environment for discussing about High End Audio, Stereo System, Home Theater System, Home Stereo System, Home Theater Installation, Amplifiers, Speakers, Subwoofers, Integrated System, Acoustic treatments & Digital Room Corrections and many more.
At AudioShark, we also have incorporated an exciting Marketplace where members can peruse terrific buys on used gear, as well as meet dealers and discuss the purchase of new gear.
We are as crazy about this hobby as you are! So come on in and join us! Audioshark.org the Friendliest Audio Forum!
Industry Participation Disclosure : The owner and administrator of Audioshark is the owner of Suncoast Audio LLC in Sarasota Florida. Suncoast Audio has a full brick and mortar presence in Sarasota with several great show rooms with many world class brands. More information can be found at http://www.suncoastaudio.com
Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.
Sincerely,
The Audioshark.org Team
was that USPS? they have the best rates from the mainland to the islands, by far.
Shipping Overseas 498 pounds w/3...