Anyone hear both Parasound JC-2 and Pass XP10?

Tony,

I have to say that this is one good preamp! The reviews out there are pretty much spot on in terms of the JC 2's strengths:

- powerful bottom end
- black background
- great sound staging and imaging
- clear and detailed mid-range
- well balanced

Compared to my Plinius M8, the JC 2 was much stronger in the bass and produced a more solid foundation that made me realize that I was missing something with the M8.

I found the mid-range on the M8 a tad sweeter and maybe a little more engaging than the JC 2. Overall, they were darn close in their level of performance and sound - not anywhere near the level of difference that there was in the bass.

The one area I felt that the M8 was better in was the highs. I felt that with the M8, the highs were a little more extended, with a little more "you are there".

I could easily live with either preamp, but I am leaning towards buying the JC 2 due to its superior bass.

If you the opportunity to hear or audition either preamp, I heartily recommend both.

George

Ah, that's interesting news. Now audio memory being what it is, George, can you say anything about your memory of how the XP20 sounded in comparison to the JC-2?

Based on my memory, I think the JC 2 is generally on par with the XP-20 and it probably has better bass (especially the lowest octave or two).

My buddy who lives a few miles from me still has his XP-20, so if I decide to buy the JC 2, I can ask him to bring it over and do a direct comparison.

Given the price differences between the two preamps, I think the JC 2 is a much better value.

George