2. amps-preamps
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Tube Pre-Amp, vs Solid State with Tone Controls/EQ to take edge off the top end?

Ok,

Really dig my current speaker set-up, they do 90% of what I want at a reasonable price.   (leaving brand out of here so as to not go off track).  

Using a Pass Labs 250.8, and really like it.  Trading out for a lower priced amp immediately gave me a smaller soundstage.  I believe Nelson voices his amps to have a bit of tube like sound but while keeping a solid low end.

Using a Pass XP-12 pre-amp, it's a great piece.  Does what it does really well.

But... I'd like to ever so slightly de-tune the top end on my speaker.  Just take it down a slight bit (usually only when above 90db).

Thoughts on trying a pre-amp with tone controls or an EQ, vs a tube pre-amp? (or a big integrated amp even)

Just looking for others thoughts. Thanks.

dep14
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almarg
9,670 posts
 
The Loki certainly seems well worth trying. One downside, though, might result from the fact that it only provides unbalanced inputs and outputs, and presumably has an unbalanced internal signal path, while I believe both of your Pass components are fully balanced.

In any event, if the Loki proves to not be to your liking, and you would be willing to consider spending several thousand dollars on a remarkably versatile and transparent solution, you may want to consider a DEQX, www.deqx.com

It accomplishes equalization via sophisticated digital signal processing, without the traditional side-effects and limited adjustability of analog equalization, and can do a whole lot more than just serving as an equalizer.

Most models provide digital inputs and outputs as well as balanced and unbalanced analog inputs and outputs, as well as the ability to select between multiple sources, so inserting it into the signal path before or after your preamp are both possibilities that could be considered. Some models can also be used as a preamp, which is what I do with my DEQX HDP-5.

For a lot more commentary by DEQX users see this thread:

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/is-deqx-a-game-changer

Good luck. Regards,
-- Al
last_lemming
639 posts
 
I have Thiels and I used a BAT pre with SS amp to "take the edge" off the highs. A bit of tube rolling dialed it right in.

the BAT is fully balanced too. 
dep14 OP
336 posts
 
@last_lemming What BAT combo are you using?

BAT has always interested me.  
4425
861 posts
 
Agreeing w Elizabeth on cleaning power first. You have a good pre. All a softer tube pre could do for you is roll off the top which you’ll soon find boring. A neutral tube pre will leave you in the same place.
 I have found the latest generation of AQ power products to accomplish what you are looking for without rolling the highs off. In fact the Hurricane power cord is the first high end cord that I can say provided fundamental benefits along the lines you are looking for. I am somewhat sceptical on power cords but not this one. FWIW
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