2. analog
  3. 1329350623

PASS and ZYX

Has anyone used the PASS XP-15 with the ZYX 4D-S MC cartridge? I currently have the Glider high output and the Audio Research PH3SE. There is barely enough gain without the PH3 yet using it tends to overdrive the phono section. Hence, the desire to change both components and add some flexibility. There seems to be a lot of good buzz about both components. Thanks in advance.
128x128wynnosu
peterayer
1,382 posts
 
I would also consider the arm/cartridge pairing as you go down this path. Ask someone like DougDeacon about ZYX cartridges. He seems to have a lot of experience.
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Whatever phono stage you get next, make sure it has the ability to change gain settings at the very least. Most offer changes in gain and loading, some even offer the ability to change capacitance. Having a flexible phono stage makes analog a lot easier and more fun. Flexibility is the key.
peterayer
1,382 posts
 
The Pass Xono is extremely flexible and a great value used for about $2K. The XP-15 is supposedly better, though I have not heard one yet.
scar972's avatar
scar972
225 posts
 
I'm using a Pass XP-15 with ZYX 4D low output and my system has never sounded better. As a few have said having a flexible phono is important, I had a fixed phono for years...the Tom Evans Groove. The XP-15 just made life a lot easier for me.
wynnosu's avatar
wynnosu OP
23 posts
 
Scar:

I see you use tubes for your pre and power amps. Did you notice any change in the sound when adding the PASS phono amp? I guess what I am wondering is in an all-Audio Research tube system like mine, will a solid state phono section change the overall characteristics of my system? (I am using Magnepan 3.3s but have the 3.7s on order and should see them in about two weeks.)
More to discover