2. amps-preamps
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Which Pre-Amp Pass Labs or Audio Research

I`m now using The Pass X350 Power Amp and a Audio Research upgraded LS22 preamp. I`ve also used the Ref5 both preamps sound great the Ref5 was just adorable much better control etc. Im wondering would the Pass Xp20 or Xp30 be a better way to go. I`v heard the AR preamps are much better than the Pass Labs Preamps.
813_sheridan
barrysandy
192 posts
 
I posted a response in my system description but here are some further thoughts. I don't think tube usage would be an issue with the Ref5 unless you leave the preamp on all the time. My Ref40 warms up in an hour and doesn't sound much better after that. The signal tubes will easily last 5000 hours and are not that expensive.

If set on Pass, read the description of the Xp-20 v. Xp-30 here at dagogo:

http://dagogo.com/pass-labs-xp-30-preamplifier-review

The XP-30 would be my choice if you wanted to go with the Pass preamp.

As another less expensive option, I don't know whether you have tried different tubes in the LS22?

I also found this article of interest. I have tried these specific types of mods in other equipment with terrific sonic results but few people have the skill or want to damage the resale value of their stuff:

http://www.10audio.com/arc_ls22.htm

Good luck!
bo1972's avatar
bo1972
2,789 posts
 
Are you using the old 350? not a .5 serie?
br3098
994 posts
 
I recently saw the GamuT D3i preamp at the recent Newport show and had a chance to listen in a quieter environment thanks to the local GamuT dealer. It's a beautiful looking dual-mono preamp and it sounds great.

I hate to admit it, but I am seriously thinking about replacing my Conrad Johnson CT-6 for the GamuT. I don't really want to spend the money, but I was really captivated by the sound (and I hate it when that happens). It might be the quietest, most resolving preamp I have ever heard.
bo1972's avatar
bo1972
2,789 posts
 
In my opinion Pass Labs creates stunning amps and good pre amps. But there is still a difference between stunning and good. In the world of Highend it is all about details what makes a tool stunning.

I owned the XP-20. It is a very good pre amp, but not a stunning one.

I have a client with the AR Ref 5SE. It never gave me the feeling it is a stunning pre amp either.
813_sheridan OP
11 posts
 
Thanks Barrysandy, I replaced the sovtek 6922 tubes for the mitsushita`s the change in sonics over the sovtek 6922 well worth it. I think that is as far as I want to go with the LS22 I`m thing about the resale on a modded preamp.
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