PASS and ZYX

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.)

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.

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.

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.

Enjoy your new phono stage. I've heard great things about the Einstein, but I have not heard one myself.