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What tube pre-amps pair well with Pass amps?

Does anyone have experience with this?  I'm running Focal Sopra No. 2s and I understand the Focal's pair nicely with Pass amps.  Any tube pre-amps you'd recommend for consideration? I like the classical rock, but am gravitating more to jazz, classical and vocals. I just want to try something new.  Thanks.
billtro
chrismini's avatar
chrismini
62 posts
 
If Nelson pass wanted tube preamps, he would have made them  Stick with Nelson's designs. He is the best amplifier designer-engineer there is so why mess with tubes?
laaudionut
263 posts
 
I will agree on his ability to build some of the best solid state amplification afforded the audio community. However, I have had both the XP20 and XP30 in my system(paired with the 60.8's), and they are anemic and lifeless in offering.
dgarretson
2,597 posts
 
You may want a differential balanced preamp to bring out the best in Pass's balanced designs.  I use an AtmaSphere MP-1 preamp with XA 160.8 monoblocks and a modified XP-25 phono stage.  It sounds very clean and can be contoured to taste with tube rolling.
mesch
3,476 posts
 
@1markr My pre is about 2 year old version of the Special. Bought from Aric as a demo. How was your preamp 'souped up'?
keithr
1,306 posts
 
Nelson Pass doesn't design active preamps
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