Pass X1 and Rowland Capri Preamps

I agree with Swanny in some respects -- trying them both is best, as both Swanny and I did. I didn't think the XP20 was lean sounding -- it just sounded leaner and less musical to me, in my system, than the Capri did. I also agree with Swanny's characterization of the Capri's bottom end -- perhaps not lacking (in my system), but a little loose. Which is why I ultimately paid a lot more more for the Nagra. One other note on the Capri -- I found it superb at low volume levels (as was the Pass).

Now, back to Tvad's points -- these are jut Swanny's and my experience with these components in our systems. With both of these components there are risk free ways to try them both out in *your* system. A pain, yes, but worth it.

thanks for all the inputs, all. i do agree with the necessity of trying the component in my own environment and evaluating based on my personal predilections. in this case, i've decided to start with the X1 and see how it sounds, if for no other reason than i appreciated the communications from mark at reno and it's from the same company as my power amp.

If you are in touch with Mark @ Reno, you may also want to audition a used XP-10 to compare to the X-1. They do sound different. I had the X-1 and now own the XP-20. It's a different price point, but the sonic differences are interesting to compare. The Pass pre amps work extremely well with Pass amps if that is what you have and that MAY offer some compatibility that you won't find with the Capri, though I have not heard it.

Capri: I listen alot of instruments, clasical, and jazz and I am so in love with the Capri especially when Analysis Plus cables are in use.
-Clean, detail, and moving are its main characteristic.
-Won't be polite and lay back as many other Pre's.

I haven't heard any of Pass Pre yet but if 1 day I mainly listen to vocals or want a fuller body sound, I will probably consider Bat, Mark Levinson, Plinius before I get to the Pass Pre.
Keep us posted on how u like the Pass Pre and what's its characteristic will be like. Best

My sys:
- CDP: Meridian.
- Pre: JR Capri
- Amp: JR 102 (100w, D-class)
- Spks: Sonus Faber Grand Piano

XP series is warm and full, IMHO. Mark at Reno says it has a "rolled off lower end" but I wouldn't characterize it as such--I have plenty high end extension--it's just that the soundstage is so danged well defined and solid. Each instrument has it's own distinct line and presence, yet it all falls together musically, with the XP10.