Just picked up an XP 22 and I own a XP 12. XP 12 is a good, neutral pre-amp.
Shortest answer - XP 22 is better, and it was obvious to ME.
Shorter Answer - seems like used price differences if you are patient is in the 1700-2k neighborhood. - If you can swing it, and have the space - it's worth it.
More detailed answer - XP 22 to me has a bigger soundstage, more detail and space around instruments but isn't bright. Blacker background for sure. - Did I hit every audiophile cliche?
Here is what I can tell you It's really good. I had planned to do a head to head and decide if it was worth it. Took me about 1 hour to decide the XP22 must stay. Oppo DVD player off to another room and a longer USB run... only so many shelves in this room!
Shortest answer - XP 22 is better, and it was obvious to ME.
Shorter Answer - seems like used price differences if you are patient is in the 1700-2k neighborhood. - If you can swing it, and have the space - it's worth it.
More detailed answer - XP 22 to me has a bigger soundstage, more detail and space around instruments but isn't bright. Blacker background for sure. - Did I hit every audiophile cliche?
Here is what I can tell you It's really good. I had planned to do a head to head and decide if it was worth it. Took me about 1 hour to decide the XP22 must stay. Oppo DVD player off to another room and a longer USB run... only so many shelves in this room!