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Pass Labs X-1 Preamp Questions:

Hi all,
These questions about the Pass Labs X-1 preamp are for people who own, have owned, or are very familiar with the Pass Labs X-1 preamp, with the full sized power supply:
1.Is the Pass Labs X-1 preamp sensitive to cables, and power cords? If so, what are the best brands to bring out the best this preamp has to offer?
2. Is the Pass X-1 sensitive to support feet, cones, blocks, or other items placed under it?
If so, what are the best things to put under it?
3. Does the Pass X-1 generally sound best with the control unit stacked on top of the power supply, the power supply stacked on top of the control unit, or with the two units well seperated from one another, or, does it really matter that much either way?
4. Is the Pass X-1 sensitive to A/C plug orientation?
Also, does it generally sound better with the extra ground left working, or with the extra ground disconnected or defeated with a "cheater-plug" for example?
5. The Pass X-1 sounds really good in my system [see my system in my member name section of audiogon], but, compared to a Parasound P/LD-2000 preamp that I also own, the Pass X-1 seems to sound a tad thin, cool, and instruments and voices seem to have less weight, texture, body, solidity, and warmth. The bass also seems less solid. Are there any ways to diminish these things, or do you think that I may just be used to hearing possible colorations of the P/LD-2000 preamp?
6. Any other things to know about tweaking the sound of the Pass X-1?
Thanks in advance!
daltonlanny

Showing 1 response by bigkidz

bigkidz
3,312 posts
 
The X-1 is not an overall warm preamp, it is neutral sounding to my ears. The best power cord I tried was the Elrod Sig 3 on it. It added a slightly warmer mid range with a little more body. I never felt the bass was less than solid in fact I found it to be one of the best bass preamps I have heard. Try a 14" bicycle inner tube under the unit to see if it makes a change in your system and if it does and you like it, you'll know what to do. Also put some wood blocks under the unit and experiment. My experience may be quite different that yours do to room and vibration effects. I never really heard any real difference with the power supply on top, under or separated from the main unit but there are others who will have a different experience. I compared the X-1 to over a dozen preamps including tube preamps. Each preamp had their own strengths and weaknesses and added a different flavor to the sound but the only one to make me want to change was the Tom Evans Vibe. It was that much better and more $$$$. I never found AC a problem with the X-1 so maybe someone else can offer some suggestions.

Happy Listening.
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