2. amps-preamps
  3. 1367181432

Preamp for Pass Labs X150.5 or X250.5

Upgrading my Musical Fidelity M6i Integrated and M6 CD/DAC with one of the Pass Labs X.5 amps. Using Usher Be-718 DMD speakers with subwoofer (for now). Was going to look for a used X1 or X2.5 Pass Labs preamp and new DAC but thought maybe another option would be to look for an all in one Preamp/DAC that also has HT Bypass along with ability to connect my sub. After doing some research, a couple that come to mind are used Classe CP-800, or new NAD M51, and Wyred 4 Sound DAC2(not sure if sub will work). Any other suggestions or would it just be better to stick with used Pass Labs Preamps and then an economical DAC? My budget is $3k or below for the preamp/DAC.

I would prefer to go with the Pass Labs amps (per the recommendation of the Usher dealer) but another totally different option would be to go with a better integrated such as the Hegel H300 which has all in one package including HT bypass.
dkrilic1
czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,752 posts
 
Nothing better than system synergy a Pas Labs Pre with a Pass Labs Amp. If you want an Integrated a Pass Integrated such as the INT-150.

Chuck
zd542
5,339 posts
 
I've owned several Pass amps and preamps myself. I likes the amps very much but not the preamps. If it were me, I would keep your cd player and put all the money towards the best preamp you can. The M6 is a great player. Getting a better preamp will be a much bigger change. If you are willing to buy used, I would look at something by Aesthetix, Ayre and BAT. There are other great brands as well, but this is what I would start with.
jl35
3,982 posts
 
Very happy with X250.5 and JRDG Capri. I see the new version of the Capri is available with optional DAC.
dkrilic1 OP
2 posts
 
Thanks for the suggestions. I did look at the INT-150 but don't believe it has HT Bypass.

With regards to the other suggestions, do I need check that the impedance of the amp and pre are a good match? A bit confused as to what I need to look for and what potential problems I could run into.

Thanks again.
kiddman
341 posts
 
I've a lot of experience with Pass and unless you are willing to spend a LOT more money than the Pass preamps go with Pass. And in the cases of spending a LOT more money even most of those won't be as good.
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