Want new phono amp, what should I buy?

Swamp,
I think I was at that same demo in CT a couple of years ago with those phono stages you describe. I completely agree with your recollection about which sounded best. I would only echo what others have said that each system and personal taste varies, so the best way to be sure is to audition the options in one's own system if possible.

I have access to the Pass Labs XP-25 and an XP-15. I should have them sometime next week and should know more as soon as they are warmed up after a day of idling. I did order an XP-20 to replace my XP-10. Apparently those guys in at Pass Labs are very busy and I should see that XP 20 in mid August. I really appreciate the advice. I am going to try to listen to others mentioned in this thread.

I've got the Pass Xono with the XP20 and XA.5 amps. It' a good match. I've read that the XP15 is better than the Xono and the XP25 is a significant improvement over that. Remember that one convenience of the XP25 is the easy loading via front panel knobs. Spend some time finding the best settings for your system before making any buying decisions. Also, these units are meant to be on 24/7 and I was told that to sound their best they need to be on for a few days at least, so keep them both plugged in while evaluating their performance. You might also want to contact Kent at Pass for advice.

Please let us know what you think of these Pass units once you've had them in for a while.

Any updates?

If you want tubes, try the TRON Seven phono. Top class boutique Brit phono stage distributed by Jeff at Highwater Sound, NYC.