Preamp Advice for my System


I am considering changing the preamp in my system. I have a BAT-42KSE and have started to look for something different. How would you compare a Pass X1, Bryston BP-26, or Classe CP-800 to the BAT?  How are those 3 different from each other. The BAT sounds a little laid back to my ears. 
richmos
Your BAT Preamp could sound a whole lot better using the balanced outputs to the Bel Canto amps. The BAT has 2 sets of XLR outputs. Using the 2nd set of XLRs going to the crossover and running the Apogees full range should have a much better sound. I really think the Paradigm crossover is taking all the music right out of your preamplifier. I decent set of XLRs going from the preamp to the amps should turn that BAT sound up quite a few notches. And I mean an order of a magnitude with XLR cables at a price of $200-300. BAT preamps need XLR outputs to sound best. Spending money on a new preamp is a waste. I use REL subs in a pair right next to my Martin Logans, and they are directly connected to the speaker outputs of the amp. Apogees should be run full range. I find crossovers do more harm to your main speakers than help, in the way you have it setup now. I would bet my right foot, that what I’m telling you will give you what you’re looking for.
@bigddesign3  I agree that using the subwoofer crossover is killing your system.  Plus I found the Bel Canto Ref 1000 to be polite and little boring.  They are smooth. 
I'm going to give going XLR from the Bel Cantos to the BAT a try. When I first purchased the Apogees I ran them full range, but then the subwoofer bug caught me. I've been through some different equipment since then, so It's worth a try to take the crossover out of the loop. 

Thanks for the input.
Bigddesign - You can keep your right foot. I finally got new XLR cables and went directly from the Bel Canto's XLR to the BAT XLR. Took the sub and sub crossover out of the loop. You are right on - I forgot how good the Apogees can sound full range. Whole new level of clarity and dynamic range. Plenty of bottom.


Thanks