new phono pre Pass Labs Xp-15 phono pre


Just wanted to first thank everyone for sharing their thoughts, experience and expertise in helping me select a new phono pre.... a whole lot of info to digest and investigate in replacing my well modified Jolida JD9. 

Ended up finding a great deal on a Pass Labs XP-15 from Mark at Reno HiFi.... thanks for that recommendation. 

The XP-15 arrived late afternoon yesterday, and it took about 3.5 hours to thaw out lol    Installed it and started playing with loading.   Overall initial impression is that it is a HUGE improvement over the JD9.... quieter, much much quieter, better dynamics, more articulate and better imaging. But so far the most noticeable improvement is in the more realistic timing and decay in piano notes, cymbal and drum strikes. Very cool.

FYI,  using a Talisman V2 gold cartridge. Best settings "so far" on the XP-15 are gain at mid point and loading at 311 ohms....  I'll update as changes are made. 
jimpittsburgh
Congrats on the new phono stage Jim! I hope it brings you many hours of enjoyment!
I wish the XP-15 had gain and loading options via the front panel, like the XP-25 does.
That looks so much simpler to me. I guess that's what you get for twice the price.
lol   yep, that's why it's turned sideways in my rack while I'm playing with settings  Wife just loves seeing all those wires sticking out all over the place.... 
Congrats! Love my Xono and don't see it going anywhere any time soon. The noise floor on these is just incredible. Hate the internal dip switches too but luckily I don't swap carts often. 
I have it love love it !!! Rega P9 new Hana ML  Golden ear triton ones simply amazing 3-D sound