Anyone auditioned Pass Labs XP-30 preamp?

Very, very insightful discussion...

Having ordered the Krell Phantom (two-chassis, 17500 USD retail), presumably a model comparable in features and quality to the XP-30, I would be interested to know more on comparison between Pass and Krell preamps, generally, and if possible, on Pass XP series vs Krell Evo preamps.

Tnx

You don't know what you're missing until it's there.

While I'm not sure the XP-30 is the most (M)usical preamp I have heard, Peter's system, with the XP-30 added, offers a presentation so sure and engaging that I am still hearing and 'feeling' the music of last night's listening session.

Characteristics are rich and solid vocals, stunning speed, a newfound soundstage breadth, a substantially greater transmission of complex symphonic passages, more persuasive imaging and this listener's life-list level of timbral accuracy.

The complementarity of the XP-30 with Peter's other system components is disarming: even with flawed recordings the music can somehow survive. That's a feat.

the other listener in Peter Ayer's thread (two entries above)

FWIW there is a new review,

http://www.dagogo.com/View-Article.asp?hArticle=1060

The reviewer compares the XP-30 to the MBL 6010d which is arguably the best preamp I have ever heard.

Great review. I love my XP-30...

I'm curious how the XP-30 (or XP-20) compares with the ARC Anniversary Reference (or the Ref 5). When I upgrade my X0.2, these are the linestages I'll look at based on fit with the rest of my system. Another preamp that I'm very interested in is the Esoteric C-03. Heard it at a few audio shows and was quite impressed with it.