Tube Preamp for Pass XA25 under $3,000


As the title says, I am looking for a Tube Preamp under $3,000 for my office system, which is my main listening space. I just do streaming (Roon/Tidal straight out of high end PC, ie no streamer, into Matrix Audio DAC) and currently have a Schiit Freya plus, new to me Pass Labs XA25 that I love, and Harbeth P3esr in nearfield (four feet). Broad range of music, from acoustic/vocals/americana and jazz to livelier funk and rock at moderate levels.

I like my system, but feel the Freya may be the weak link. I am happy with the sq of the mellower stuff, but the more challenging funk and rock can get a bit muddled in the lower range. I am mostly leaning toward tube preamp, but might consider Pass Labs ss preamp if I can find one that won’t blow my budget. Primarily looking for used gear for the savings. Balanced input is a bonus.

So I am looking at the following that is currently available and under budget roughly in order of preference:

LTA Microzotl Preamp (not headphone amp)

Modwright LS 100 Tube Preamp

Conrad Johnson ET3SE

Prima Luna Dialogue Premium Preamp

new Don Sachs Line Stage Preamp (appears that most used ones available have caps for tube amps, so would probably have to go new here)

Pass Labs xp 10 (none that I can find online now, so that will be a wait and see)

Pass Labs xp 12 (really beyond my budget but might go for it if a good deal arises)

Forget the preamp and invest in streamer

So would like to know if anyone has experience with any of the above preamps with a XA25, or just any general thoughts on which might be best for my situation. Thanks in advance.

jcwilson

OP I’ve heard the Pass x25 and Backert Tube Preamp with Tekton Impact Monitor Speakers, The sound has huge soundstage and 3D So holographic, if I own the x25 I will get Backert.

I like my system, but feel the Freya may be the weak link. 

I couldn’t disagree more.  You’ve got a good list of candidates and some good recommendations above, but the Freya is pretty good.  What’s really holding you back is streaming from a computer.  Sorry, but that’s by far your weakest link and, frankly, is an insult to the rest of your equipment.  Get a good streamer first and then worry about a preamp.  That’s absolutely what I’d do.  

As a previous XA25 owner I can vouch for the LTA gear pairing nicely with the pass amps. I’m sure the Pass Pre’s are great too. However the LTA offer a tinge of the tube “ember” with tons of detail and clarity you get from solid stage preamps. 
 

it certainly bested the Schiit Freya + I had. 

Consider this piece of advice a holiday gift, and if you can buy it in the next few hours, you'll be lucky. After that, it will be gone, no question.