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Do Pass X-Series Preamps Match with X or X.5 Amps?

Hi everyone,
I was just wondering whether the Pass X-Series preamps such as the X-2.5, X-1, etc., match up best sonically with the older X-Series amps such as the X-250, X-350, X-600's, etc.,or with the newer X.5 series such as the X-250.5, X-350.5, X-600.5, etc.?
If you have tried or heard them together, please describe the differences.
Thanks a million!
audio_girl

Showing 1 response by jwin

jwin's avatar
jwin
101 posts
 
I have an X350.5 and both an Audio Research Ref 2 and a Pass Labs X-0 preamp that I use to drive the amp which mates with a pair of Avalon Ascents and a REL Stadium 3. For most music I prefer the Pass Labs over the Audio Research. Violins seem to have a better decay effect with the tube preamp, but female focals are clearly more musical with the solid state combination. I have owned many tube amps and I wouldn't trade any of them for the X-350.5.
Happy listening.
Jeff
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