Pass Labs X-1, X-2, X-0


Has anybody auditioned the Pass Labs x series pre-amplifiers? Were there any substantial differences in sound quality? Please tell me what you think?
davewavaolcom
The X1 working with my Aleph 2s is an experience i wish could be shared by all who love music.
I agree with Zane, the X1 is a fantastic preamp. Mine is paired with an X150 which plays and sounds beyond my greatest expectations. It replaced an ML 38S which while very good, did not have the air or inner detail of the X1.
Hi Joe - I'm waiting for my used CJ PF-R preamp to arrive. If it's not quite what I'm looking for, I'll be searching for a deal on a used X1. My amp is a CJ Premier 11a tube amp. ...Abe
Yes the Pass X-1 is definitely better than the Aleph P, but that is not saying a whole lot. I am a Pass Aleph amplifier owner and a clear Pass bigot when it comes to the Aleph amps and I have respect for the X series amps, but, IMO, the X-1 clearly doesn't measure up to the best tube preamps. According to Pass, you have to leave it on all the time in order for it to sound its best and I've heard that while it sounds better, it never achieves that A-1 sound which can be had with some of the best tube equipment. In my audition with the Pass X-1 and the X-350, I heard an overly heavy bass and no midrange sweetness. Certain musical passages were overly bright. If you compare it to the Aleph P, yes it sounds great, because this wasn't an exceptional preamp at all. I completely agree with Jtinn and Topkat. Pass Labs has a great reputation for designing amplifiers, but that reputation does not carry over to preamplifiers.