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Pass Labs XP-30 vs Krell Evo 202

Hi,
I am considering upgrading my preamp and would appreciate your help in comparing the Pass Labs XP-30 and the Krell Evo 202. I am also interested in finding out how much of an upgrade each of these will be over my current Classe CP-50.


My current setup is,
Thiel 7.2 Speakers
Krell FPB 400cx Amp
Classe CP-50 Preamp
Esoteric X-03 SACD Player

Note: I have already tried a Conrad Johnson 16 LSII. I preferred the sound of my Classe to this unit in my system. The Conrad Johnson reduced the amount of detail at all frequencies compared to the Classe. The Conrad Johnson also produced images that are big and somewhat smeared together where as the Classe has space between the images. The Classe soundstage also had more depth and width.
cadence151
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,604 posts
 
erik_squires

post pics of your gear In Virtual Systems. 
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,604 posts
 
cadence151

look into a Krell pre-amp.  Happy Listening!
erik_squires
16,056 posts
 
Hey Jafant, it’s all a mess right now. :)

I use a Mytek Brooklyn, Parasound P7, ICEPower Amps with custom speakers. Parts similar to Gryphon stand mounts.

The Mytek sounds slightly better direct than through the P7, but I need the P7's multichannel capabilities.

In my fantasy world, I'd scope out something top notch.

Best,

E
erik_squires
16,056 posts
 
I should point out that the Pass Pre/Amps I heard were not in my home and were driving Lawrence Audio Double Bass speakers.
knghifi
1,668 posts
 
Ok, I'm going to get laughed at but you'll never know unless you try it. I know of someone that replaced his Pass XP-30 with a Linear Tube Audio MZ2-S designed by David Berning and says it's better. You will laugh because of the huge difference in price but it's the finest preamp I've ever heard.
Isn't Linear Tube Audio MZ2-S an integrated amp?   What amp did he replaced besides Pass XP-30?

Pass XP 30 and. ... well.... um ...    

Nothing really in a long time has been all that for me. When I last really got excited about a preamp it was a CJ premiere, and a Sonic Frontiers. 
CJ too colored for my taste.  I had Sonic Frontier SFL-1, SFL-2, Line 3 and Power 3.  PCX upgraded Line 3 and Power 3 to the MAX, SE+.  Best move ever made is SELLING the Sonic Frontiers, POS!

We all have our personal preferences, to each his own.  OP, go listen and decide for yourself!
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