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

Looking to get a pre-amp to mate with my Thiel 2.4s and the Pass Labs XA-30.5. I've got about at $2500 limit and need a phono section (or need to to pick up a MM phono stage in addition... but still stay under the $2500 limit). I'm currently using a Classe CAP-151's pre-amp section, but it seems that it's getting outclassed a bit by the new additions. Any suggestions? I'm open to both tube and SS options.
cal3713
cal3713's avatar
cal3713 OP
1,421 posts
 
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.
cal3713's avatar
cal3713 OP
1,421 posts
 
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.
unsound
7,346 posts
 
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.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
"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:)
cmalak
681 posts
 
Not to suggest that good bass is 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.

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:)

Agree with both those statements. It's funny that with my 250wpc MF SS integrated amp, I found the top end harsh and the overall sound a bit thin, whereas with my 110wpc ARC tube amp, I have a much more natural and neutral tonal balance without any portion of the frequency spectrum thrust forward or recessed. I think the power supply in the ARC amp was clearly superior to that of MF.

Cal3713...if there is a way to audition the X250.5 before purchasing it (or maybe negotiating a time frame in which you can return the amp if it's not a good fit and just be out the shipping costs)?
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