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  1. #1
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    Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Just curious what tube preamp you use with your Pass Labs amp (any version).
    Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.

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  2. #2

    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    A friend of mine uses an ARC Ref5 SE with his X600.5s.
    Anthony
    Analog: VPI Clearaudio Innovation Wood/Kuzma 4Point/Ortofon A95> ASR Basis Exclusive HV---->

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  3. #3
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    A friend of mine uses ARC REF5SE with his XA100.8's.

    he took them back already.
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  4. #4

    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Unless you can find a tube preamp with a very low output impedance, on paper, Pass' relatively low input impedance (20/30 Kohms on RCA/XLR) are not optimal with tube preamps. But that is just on paper. Of course if you can find a tube pre that has a nominal output impedance of <300 ohms and never goes above 1Kohm across the frequency band, then you should be ok.
    Cyril
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  5. #5
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Joe

    Does the GAT not work? If not I would contact Kevin Deal or Chris Johnson and pose the same questions having the spec's for the Pass amps in hand.

  6. #6
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Quote Originally Posted by cmalak View Post
    Unless you can find a tube preamp with a very low output impedance, on paper, Pass' relatively low input impedance (20/30 Kohms on RCA/XLR) are not optimal with tube preamps. But that is just on paper. Of course if you can find a tube pre that has a nominal output impedance of <300 ohms and never goes above 1Kohm across the frequency band, then you should be ok.
    If you have the .8 series, the input impedance is a much happier, 100kohms!

    When I had 160.5's, my Doshi tube pre was a terrible match. With the 160.8's it's a great match.
    Speakers: Magico M-Project w/MPods
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  7. #7
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    My GAT works great. Just wondering what others are using and eager to get their experiences.
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  8. #8
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    You were curious at one time about the Primaluna, so I would contact Kevin and ask him what he thinks. I was going to buy one, but when I sent my Anthem preamp into Chris Johnson at Parts Connexion to replace the motorized volume control he and I worked out a deal on a completely modified and upgraded Sonic Frontiers Line 2 SE+ and it sounds great.

  9. #9
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    That's great Jack.

    I was really only asking to see what balanced tube preamps some are using. I want to move my gear away from my speakers to let them breathe. Using long XLR interconnects would help me do that but it's not 100% necessary.

    Quote Originally Posted by Jack View Post
    You were curious at one time about the Primaluna, so I would contact Kevin and ask him what he thinks. I was going to buy one, but when I sent my Anthem preamp into Chris Johnson at Parts Connexion to replace the motorized volume control he and I worked out a deal on a completely modified and upgraded Sonic Frontiers Line 2 SE+ and it sounds great.
    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.

  10. #10
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Got it.

  11. #11
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    I use a BAT VK-51se tube preamp with my Pass X250. It's a great combo but I wish the BAT was a bit more tube like. I have always used tube preamps with SS amps. I much prefer the BAT over the Pass X-1 preamp that I had for a few months before selling it and going with the BAT.

    The out put impedance of the BAT is about 400 by Stereophile's measurements (which is twice that of what BAT claimed it is) and I believe that I called Pass and they thought I would have no problems using the BAT. I have not noticed any problems but maybe I am not getting 100% out of the Pass because of it. I could be losing some of the low frequency. The input impedance for the X250 is 22 Kohm balanced.
    My Gear- Mains System-Pass X250 amp, BAT VK-51se preamp, Luxman DA-06 DAC, Magnepan 1.6's, Thorens TD-145 TT, Dual Martin Logan Subs, Vintage Luxman T-110 Tuner, Cables-WW Platinum 7 USB, Cardas Parsec XLR, AQ Columbia DBS 72v XLR, Belden 8402 XLR.

  12. #12
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    No, I use the Pass Labs XP20 pre.
    George
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  13. #13

    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Quote Originally Posted by Mechnutt View Post
    I use a BAT VK-51se tube preamp with my Pass X250. It's a great combo but I wish the BAT was a bit more tube like. I have always used tube preamps with SS amps. I much prefer the BAT over the Pass X-1 preamp that I had for a few months before selling it and going with the BAT.

    The out put impedance of the BAT is about 400 by Stereophile's measurements (which is twice that of what BAT claimed it is) and I believe that I called Pass and they thought I would have no problems using the BAT. I have not noticed any problems but maybe I am not getting 100% out of the Pass because of it. I could be losing some of the low frequency. The input impedance for the X250 is 22 Kohm balanced.
    That combo should be just dandy.

  14. #14
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    As I'm getting ready, to change amps to either a Pass 30.8 or 150.8...I was wondering the same thing; what are some nice pre-amp matches?

    I currently have an ARC LS-15...and have had my eye open for an LS-25 mkI. The idea is, I wanted to stay with a 6922-based circuit...as the warmth was favorable, with my ARC DS-450.

    But with the Pass...and especially the 30.8 IMO...it might almost be too much of a good thing. I'm thinking I could go 6H30 based ARC, like a 26 or above...or one of Pass' pre-amps?

    Keep in mind; I could probably only budget, an XP-10 at this point. What's the move?
    CD

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  15. #15
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    ARC is a great match for Pass amps. Many of my friends had that combo - until they switched to Pass preamps. I would try the XP10 or try to stretch to the 20 (used).


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  16. #16
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    ARC is a great match for Pass amps. Many of my friends had that combo - until they switched to Pass preamps. I would try the XP10 or try to stretch to the 20 (used).


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    CD

    DAC/Pre-amp - PSAudio DsJ > Power-amp - > Speakers - PMC TwentyFive 23s

  17. #17
    +1 on the arc pre, pass power synergy. At least with ref and xa100.5 in my experience. Was a great combo.

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    ARC is a great match for Pass amps. Many of my friends had that combo - until they switched to Pass preamps. I would try the XP10 or try to stretch to the 20 (used).


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  18. #18
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    ARC is a great match for Pass amps. Many of my friends had that combo - until they switched to Pass preamps. I would try the XP10 or try to stretch to the 20 (used).
    Check with Mark at Reno Hi-Fi. He might have a demo XP-20 with new warranty, for a used price. That is how I got mine.

    Unfortunately, buying that pre-amp made me buy a pair of X600.5 amps a few months later. Since you already have the amps then you are probably safe.

    As as I said earlier, this combo played well with my Aerial 7Ts. They took a lot of power from these amps, but never flinched.
    Bud

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  19. #19
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Quote Originally Posted by CDLehner View Post
    As I'm getting ready, to change amps to either a Pass 30.8 or 150.8...I was wondering the same thing; what are some nice pre-amp matches?

    I currently have an ARC LS-15...and have had my eye open for an LS-25 mkI. The idea is, I wanted to stay with a 6922-based circuit...as the warmth was favorable, with my ARC DS-450.

    But with the Pass...and especially the 30.8 IMO...it might almost be too much of a good thing. I'm thinking I could go 6H30 based ARC, like a 26 or above...or one of Pass' pre-amps?

    Keep in mind; I could probably only budget, an XP-10 at this point. What's the move?
    I had an LS25mki- it sucked, big time. Go Ref 2 mki instead.
    Brinkmann Bardo w/ EMT HSD-006 cart, MSB Reference DAC --> Linear Tube Audio MicroZOTL --> Ampzilla 2000, 2nd Edition --> Fyne Audio F1-12

  20. #20
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    ARC is a great match for Pass amps. Many of my friends had that combo - until they switched to Pass preamps. I would try the XP10 or try to stretch to the 20 (used).
    Quote Originally Posted by BlueFox View Post
    Check with Mark at Reno Hi-Fi. He might have a demo XP-20 with new warranty, for a used price. That is how I got mine.
    Mark's running about $6k for his demos; there are mint ones, popping-up on AG around $5k. Of course, Mark has an XP-10, for ~$3400. If anything...that would be more my speed right now. Actually...ZERO is more my speed right now

    I'm telling you fellas...with 2 sets of speakers, and 2 amps to choose from (not to mention the fact, that I'm still "holding" the ARC DS-450); my system slush-fund, is big-time upside-down right now! However, I think I may already have a buyer...for one of the Pass amps; should drive this fella's new Dyn C2 Plats, outstandingly

    Quote Originally Posted by KeithR View Post
    I had an LS25mki- it sucked, big time. Go Ref 2 mki instead.
    Hmm So I guess I'm looking at 26 or above, or give up the glass...and get an XP? So Mike...I guess you're saying these guys, who had ARC and then Pass; preferred the Pass w/Pass?

    Man, everyone has an opinion on ARC; I've heard the 26 is both awesome, and sucks...lol.
    CD

    DAC/Pre-amp - PSAudio DsJ > Power-amp - > Speakers - PMC TwentyFive 23s

  21. #21
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    The ARC preamps were really nice, but when they tried the Pass XP20/30's, they LOVED the blacker backgrounds and synergy. The thought was that the XP20 was the sweet spot.

    That being said, I'm a big fan of ARC gear, but also of amp/preamp synergy. Tough call!


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  22. #22

    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Next week I will receive a Pass Labs X350.5 I think I will buy a .8 series in 2015. After the XA30.5, XA60.5, XA100.5 and X250.5, it is my 5th Pass. I owned the XP-20 for over 2 years of time. I liked the pre amp, but in my personal opinion Pass create stunning Poweramps and good pre amp, but not stunning.

    In 2010 I became Onkyo dealer. I sold it also in the past. But...I didn't know that Onkyo can create a deep and wide stage. Even the cheapest one does. Compared to Marantz, Denon, Cambrigde, NAD, Yamaha, Rotel the stage is a lot wider and deeper. These other brands I sold and tested a lot in the past as well. I test every single tool for all parts of what I call Total Sound. Depth and width is also a part I always test. All the other brands are 2 dimensional. Every brand which have no depth till about 1 metre I call 2 dimensional amps.

    In 2012 I became also Audyssey Installer. I use the knowledge and insight I have with acoustic music ( classical) and the knowledge in highend for the way I measure. When I measure at the Audyssey way, you loose dynamics, details, focus and even soundrealism. So I had thoughts about doing it differently. I know from many many brands and even every single product all properties. Because I collect properties and with these properties I build my physical 3 dimensional image and my personal overall sound. I started to measure at different places and heights. Cause of my photographic momory in sound I can compare every single measurment with eachother. This makes it a lot easier to create a higher endresult. Because the difference between the Audyssey way and my personal way is superior. There is so much more drive and dynamics, a lot more details, sharper individual focus, deeper stage, wider stage, better blacks and a much more involving natural sound.

    I use the Onkyo PR-SC5509 these days as a pre amp. With Audyssey Volume and EQ you can reveal details which are not there even with the best highend pre amp. I give you a few examples. Compared to the XP-20 you hear word endings on a sss, ttt of th so much more clear than with the XP-20. Moving lips and breathing of singers are so much more clear when you compare it with the XP-20. Instruments and voices are so much more loose from eachother. 2nd and 3th voices are more apparent, but also louder and more easy to follow. Physical apperance of instruments and voices is a lot better than with the XP-20. I can play louder with the 5509 compared to the XP-20 before the needle starts to move. It drives the Pass poweramps more efficient. You do not have any acoustic limitation anymore. The volums of each spaker is exact the same at the sweet spot. Also ther is more control and authority over the whole freq. range. I have talked a few times with Desmond of Pass Lbs to ask them for a highend pre amp with professional roomacoustic measurement. I also modified the stand for the miscrophone. I can measure at mm precision. And that is how I work.

    I also created stealth low freg with a subwoofer. I never auditioned any subwoofer at a shos in over 16 years of time or a set of a highend client with this level of integration. A surround specialist said; you have gold in your hands. Stealth low freq. means a full integration of the subwoofer. The energy and dynamics is comming from were it is at the recording. This has to do with timing. Without this pro meaurment I never achieved this level of integartion with any subwoofer without this system.

    With Audyssey pro I can create targetcurves. I can adapt every single freq hz I want. I read a lot about human hearing. I wanted to know wich freq. is the most sensitive part of us human beings. What I got is that I could reveal the timbre. edge of a voice. We compared some recordings with other highend pre amps and it was gone.

    The fun thing is that people don't expect this. But the easy thing is comparing. Facts counts and the best and most convincing sound always wins.

    Now these are only words, but I can promiss you that it is exactly how I discribe it. I had a few talks with MonitorAudio. I want to give this way demos for them in the US. Because I want to demo this during an audio show. In about one year the new Monitor Audio Platinum series will come out. They will be the best for the money in the world. This is always their goal. This time they also will create a more expensive highend loudspeaker. I hope I can demo them.

    Soon I will compare the 5509 with my measurment with an Audio Research Ref5 with Spectral amp. I will tell the outcome after we compared it. Comparing and testing is the fun part of audio. I love this a lot, that is why I have done thousends of tets in over 16 years of time. It is a very addictive thing for me to do!

  23. #23
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Interesting observation about the Onkyo SC5509. I have one in my home theater and was impressed the first time I played it. For both BlueRays and music, it sounds stellar. However, just this week, the video on the HDMI circuit died. Fortunately, the Oppo 103 has dual HDMI ports, so I sent one to the TV, and the other, for audio, to the SC5509. If the Oppo only had one port I would have been in trouble.

    Maybe someday I will swap out my XP-20 with it for a test.
    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
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    Mapleshade Samson four shelf maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
    Three 20 amp circuits.

  24. #24

    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Without the pro measurement the 5509 is not that special. During the show last year where( many found my set the absolute sound) I was I put all the systems off and on. People were amazed, because most people think you will loose dynamics. I proved the opposite. On Monday I went listening to other sets with my own music. I audioned the Magico S1 with Zanden pre/power and source. Mannnnn...my resolution and articulation of voices was superior. I had a big smil on my face, all those details were all gone. My stage was deeper ( It was my own set with professional roomcorrection) and instruments and voices were more physical apparent. The difference is that they work with expensive stuff and make a combination with it. I am looking for properties and I make a combination of them. This way you have much more control over a set and it is always more complete. Rob Hullekes who works for a distributer of highend products said: you can put the higend market up side down. I am just looking for the best tools, and I don't care what it costs. I still use many expensive tools as well, but not all are that expensive. Sometimes you can create a higher endresult with something what is not that expensive.

  25. #25
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Do you sell ARC preamps? Which preamp goes best with Pass Labs X250.8 amp?

  26. #26
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Amp is x150.8. I had a BAT VK-3ix Super Pak, which worked excellently.

    Currently using an Allnic L-3000, puts out a flat 150 ohm signal through out the frequency range. It produces tons more bass. Requires quite a bit of warm up, is super neutral and tranparent. I like it.

  27. #27
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    ARC LS28 > X260.8's
    Cheers ! …. Dave

  28. #28

    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    One of my friend uses VTL TL6.5 II with his Pass amplifiers and has great success. I am using XP-32 with mine X600.8's.

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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    This seems to be an old post that has been resurrected, but I own Pass 260.8s and use an XP-22 Pre. I think the synergy is awesome. It's a tube-like sound. Of course other solid state PREs go with Pass amps as well. The EMM Pre is just one example. It is truly a step up from a Pass Pre - costs more too.

    If I ever get a TT setup, I would probably seriously consider a VAC Pre for it. Something about tubes and vinyl that just go together well.

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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    jichen,

    Welcome to the forum. How are you liking the X600.8s?

    I own the 260.8s and was wondering about the heat that comes from the 600s. I get 34 watts of Class A while you are getting 50 into 8 ohms. Of course, we double that when speaking of 4 ohm speakers like Magico. The 260.8s only has a little heat - can't tell it at all in my listening chair. What about the 600s?


    Quote Originally Posted by jlchen View Post
    One of my friend uses VTL TL6.5 II with his Pass amplifiers and has great success. I am using XP-32 with mine X600.8's.

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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Quote Originally Posted by Calvin View Post
    jichen,

    Welcome to the forum. How are you liking the X600.8s?

    I own the 260.8s and was wondering about the heat that comes from the 600s. I get 34 watts of Class A while you are getting 50 into 8 ohms. Of course, we double that when speaking of 4 ohm speakers like Magico. The 260.8s only has a little heat - can't tell it at all in my listening chair. What about the 600s?
    Calvin you have less class A as impedance drops, in your case half at 4 ohms vs 8 ohms , the bias remains the same and so does the amount of class A heat produced...


    Regards
    * An Audiophile is only as old as his latest Class D incarnation *

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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    a.wayne

    Thanks for this information. As you can tell, I was told and understood otherwise. Thanks again.

    Quote Originally Posted by a.wayne View Post
    Calvin you have less class A as impedance drops, in your case half at 4 ohms vs 8 ohms , the bias remains the same and so does the amount of class A heat produced...


    Regards

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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    I’m using a VAC Master pre with a a pair of XA-200.8s. It’s a great sounding combo.

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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    That must be some amazing sound. Unfortunately in N Florida it is normally rather hot and I’m afraid the XAs would run me out of the house. I pretty much need to stick with A/B amps.

    Congrats on your Vac. It must be awesome!


    Quote Originally Posted by Mcsnare View Post
    I’m using a VAC Master pre with a a pair of XA-200.8s. It’s a great sounding combo.

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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    We have Pass Labs X600.8 monos and have tried them with the VTL Signature II hybrid pre and it was quite impressive—mature and anchored is the best way to describe it. But in our system it was not as engaging. VTL pres are awesome with dCS front ends and Dagastino amps, which is how we auditioned it as well. Just did not move us as much in our home system (where it matters) with our Linn Selekt Katalyst DAC/DSM and Cardas Clear Beyond cabling all around.

    The Pass XP-32 was also just as impressive as the VTL—especially with our Pass amps (synergy).

    However, it did not quite clinch that tube sound we wanted (lots of vocal track listen to we). It was when we slipped in the ARC Ref6SE tube preamp that my wife burst into tears.

    Sorry. Demo over. Happy wife, happy life.

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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    I am using a Mac C2300 with my Pass Labs XA25. Sounds great. Currently using Genalex 12X7 Gold Lions that I just purchased so still breaking in. I enjoyed and may go back to the Tungsol NOS 5751's I was using prior..very nice too.

  37. #37
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Using a BAT VK-51se with my X250.
    My Gear- Mains System-Pass X250 amp, BAT VK-51se preamp, Luxman DA-06 DAC, Magnepan 1.6's, Thorens TD-145 TT, Dual Martin Logan Subs, Vintage Luxman T-110 Tuner, Cables-WW Platinum 7 USB, Cardas Parsec XLR, AQ Columbia DBS 72v XLR, Belden 8402 XLR.

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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    I'm using a McIntosh C2600 pre with my Pass Labs X150.5 amp
    Speakers- Dynaudio Contour 1.8 Mk II, Amp - Pass Labs X150.5, Preamp - McIntosh C2600, Turntable - Music Hall MMF-9.3, Cartridge - Goldring Eroica LX, Phono PreAmp - Sutherland Insight, Digital Playback - Rotel RCD-1072, DAC - Bryston BDA-3, Headphones - Sennheiser HD-660S, and Drop + Dan Clark Audio Ether CX. Headphone Amp - Bryston BHA-1

  39. #39

    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Quote Originally Posted by Calvin View Post
    jichen,

    Welcome to the forum. How are you liking the X600.8s?

    I own the 260.8s and was wondering about the heat that comes from the 600s. I get 34 watts of Class A while you are getting 50 into 8 ohms. Of course, we double that when speaking of 4 ohm speakers like Magico. The 260.8s only has a little heat - can't tell it at all in my listening chair. What about the 600s?
    Sorry for the late response. I didn't notice your question until today. I had the X600.8 for 2 years and I like them a lot. The do generate some heat, I measured it once, they maintain around 50 C degree when fully warmed up.

    Julian
    Speakers: Wilson Audio Alexia 2 | Digital Sources: Esoteric Grandioso K1X + Cybershaft OP21A, Modified OPPO 205 | Amplification: Boulder 2110 + Dan D'Agostino M400 | Analog cables: Jorma Prime, Transparent Reference XL | Digital cables: Kimber KS2020 | Power cords: Transparent OPUS

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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    I use an Audio Research Reference 6 SE preamplifier with a Pass Labs X-250.5 amplifier.

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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    I'm also looking at Pass monos for My Thiel CS 3.7s as potential upgrade, probably XA160.8 would be powerful enough ?
    Regarding preamps which would be the best match between the VAC Master and the AR Ref6SE ?
    I want something very engaging and organic thanks.
    Speaker System : Thiel CS 3.7 - Vitus SIA-025 Mk2 - Aqua Acoustics LinQ - Aqua Acoustics Formula xHD Rev 2 - Fanless Intel NUC + Sbooster Mkll - Farad Super 3 - Paul Pang Quad Switch - Pink Faun LAN cables - Cardas Clear Beyond IC and SC - Furutech DSP 4.1 Power cables - Audioquest Niagara 3000 Power Conditioner - Woodlink Rack - Roon Rock - Qobuz & Tidal.

    Headphone Rig : Hifiman HE-1000SE - Kennerton Ondin Mk2 - Chord Hugo 2 - Smartphone - Qobuz & Tidal.

  42. #42
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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    Quote Originally Posted by Thieliste View Post
    I want something very engaging and organic thanks.
    perhaps you should look for you amp in the produce aisle ??
    Cheers ! …. Dave

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    Re: Pass Labs amp users: Do you use a tube preamp with your Pass amp ? Which one ? ...

    I sold pass my xa25 when I changed speakers to Harbeth 40th anniversary 30.2s...a year or so later now the Harbeths are gone and I set up my refurberbed Snell JIV's..and guess what..I bought a pass xa25 again..lol..still using my Mac C2300 and it's sounding soooo good with the old Snells.

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