Tube preamp for pass labs ?

To my understanding, the Pass Labs amps support AES48, the balanced line standard. This standard has two benefits audiophiles might like. The first is that it prevents ground loops. The second is it prevents the interconnect cable introducing a sound of its own. This means an inexpensive cable can sound as good as one that cost $1000/foot.

But to get that benefit, the preamp must also support AES48. There are tube preamps that do this and a few solid state as well. IME most of the high end audio market is ignoring AES48 so you get this argument that single-ended operation can sound just as good as balanced. But when you hear a balanced setup done properly you find there's no going back.

Another fan of Aric Audio and Pass Labs.  I used the Aric Motherlode XL with my Pass X260.8 and XA60.8 amps.  I loved the sound so much that I now use Aric tube amps as well. Great build quality, sound, and customer service.

And one more nomination for Aric Audio. I have his Motherlode II paired with a First Watt J2. In my secondary system I have an older Aric Audio Unlimited paired with a First Watt F5. Both systems put a smile on my ears day after day.  Aric is really great to work with. 

@maxdukecapone  Which ones did you purchase?

@mesch 

The motherlode XL and Custom 300B Pset

My plan is to have the motherland go to both the 300B and my Luxman M10X.

At least until I decide the M10X is not needed.😁