Pre-amp suggestions for Thiel 2.4/Pass Labs XA30.5

Yes, I was mighty impressed with the ARC VT100, and I assume the Ref 110 would be better yet. ARC seems to also work well with Maggies - so difficult loads and tube amps that do seem to work well. I have never heard the combination, nor heard others comment on it, but it would seem the that the stereotypical sonic flavors of Thiel and MAC (6600 integrated would do) would make for a pretty good combination - detailed neutrality with smoothness, power and autoformers for handling impedance swings. Again, never tried it, but would be curious.

The original owner of my 2.4s used a McIntosh MC-402... which he certainly loved (I think he was still going to use it with a new pair of 3.7s).

Wish folks had had a warmer response to the idea of the Aleph 2s, that would have saved over 1k over the 250.5. You all convinced me, however, that I'd probably end up reselling them sooner than later.

Thanks for the input. Despite being fairly sold on the 250.5, I am open to trying some other brands, so the other suggestions are welcome.

Ohhh, and obviously the low end isn't my primary focus (hence even trying the XA30.5 to start with)... imaging is really the most important target as far as I'm concerned.

Not to suggest that good bass it the number one priority, but IME without good solid bass response the Thiels can sound a bit tipped up. I think the part of the appeal of the Thiels, is due to the outstanding balance of all paramaters, rather than any specific one. FWIW, I wouldn't completely ignore the bass, it can overlap into other areas of appreciation.

"without good solid bass response the Thiels can sound a bit tipped up." Explains a lot of the stereotype, but also what some swear by Theil as among the best speakers ever made - got to have the right amp:)