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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
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.)
dgad
782 posts
 
For me the Pass XP25 is one of the best phono stages period with all the benefits of SS and none of the drawbacks typically associated with SS. I love tubes for many things but in the case of the Pass XP25 it defies the need for tubes with a natural sound that is dynamic and detailed with absolutely no hint of grain. Detail galore, bass that is unrivaled and an ease of use that only misses a remote that is mostly unnecessary.
syntax's avatar
syntax
2,193 posts
 
The High Output Glider has 2.5mV and is a Moving Coil Cartridge made for MM Input. The PH3 with its 54dB is simply to sensitive for that, MM inputs are normally in the 35-40dB range. Buying a matching cartridge (for example Glider Medium, with 0.75mV) is cheaper than buying a new Phono Preamp. Ask your Dealer for a Benz Trade and it is done. The Glider is top for the money.
wynnosu's avatar
wynnosu OP
23 posts
 
Since I have recently improved everything else in my system, I decided to take the next step in the phono area as well.

I bought the Einstein Turntable's Choice which has a fixed gain of 68 db and, when paired with my ARC Ref 3 should deliver enough gain for the low output Benz Micro Gullwing which I also bought. I prefer the lower output cartridges and, after looking at all the factors, decided to just bite the bullet and upgrade.

I originally wanted a unit like the PASS XP15 since it is more flexible, but have heard raves about the Einstein and, so long as I stay with cartridges in the .25 to .35 range, shouldn't really need multiple settings. Hope that reasoning isn't faulty.
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