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Tube preamp for Pass Labs x150.5 Amp

I currently have a AES AE-3 DJH Preamplifier linking together my Metrum Hex DAC and Pass Labs x150.5 Amp. The Pass is such a neutral/warm amp, that the AES tube preamp is making the total sound too warm in my opinion. I'm thinking of replacing the preamp with something not as warm, but would still like to stay with a tube pre. What would you recammend as a tube pre that could still have that tube sound, but not as warm? I'd like to keep it under 2K used or new, and am considering the Red wine isabella. thoughts?
linaeum66
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Keep an eye out for a used VAC Standard preamp. Should be just what you are looking for in that price range.
watercourse
23 posts
 
Try ModWright preamps - they are certainly not warm and stereotypically tubey. Dodd preamps also. Both these manufacturers use 6H30s, which might represent the sound you're after.

Whatever you choose, using balanced outputs has always worked best IME with both the X150.5 and XA30.5.
unsound
7,341 posts
 
Atmasphere or Sonic Frontiers.
linaeum66 OP
60 posts
 
I don't know much about 6H30s, I will look into it though. thanks
oblgny's avatar
oblgny
848 posts
 
I have a Rogue 66 pre that I'm using with my Pass and so far, so good. Currently I'm using rca cables, and I'm on the hunt for a good tube preamp with balanced connectors. The Pass is absolutely one of my favorite amps so far...this year. I just obtained both in separate purchases recently, both used, and it's definitely the amp that has made the most significant difference for me. I'm keeping my Rogue Cronus Magnum integrated regardless, but the Pass is also a keeper.
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