Pass Labs XP 30 VS Ayre KXR Pre

Pass Labs XP 30 VS Ayre KXR preamp. The winner is?

jebsmith7312-22-2011 2:27pm

knghifi Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 1,668 posts 05-15-2012 at 03:42am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete No definitive winner, it depends on your system and priorities.
samuelg Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 59 posts 05-17-2012 at 04:38am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete No, the Ayre is do much more extended and you can throw it at someone without damaging it
peterayer Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 1,382 posts 05-17-2012 at 11:28pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Has anyone actually heard these two preamps in the same system and done a direct comparison. The first three responders sound so definitive. On what are their opinions based?
ritmo Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 99 posts 05-18-2012 at 02:15am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Both of these are supposed to be exceptional. The Ayre has been in the market for a bit and has very good reviews. The Pass is a new unit with an excellent review in The Absolute Sound. Mike
gandme Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 212 posts 05-18-2012 at 03:54am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete I have not heard the Ayre but did audition the XP-30 at Reno Hi Fi a few months ago. I am a tube guy for preamps..but thought the 30.5 was an outstanding!!!, noise free and extremly neutral and involving line stage.