Pre amp for Pass Labs XA30.5 – Tube or SS


I’m updating my system from the bottom up and have settled on the Pass Labs XA30.5 for power amp. The speakers are a pair of Harbeth C7-es3. Now I’m debating between getting a tube or solid state pre amp. Below are the ones I consider:

SS pre amps - Pass XP10, Ayre K-5xeMP

Tube pre amps – Audio Research Ref 3, LS27 used, LS 26, LS-17SE; Conrad Johnson ET-3, ET-3SE used, Premier 17; Leben pre amp.

Can you share your experience in any of these pre-amp with Pass Labs power amps? Any other SS or Tube pre amp that are worth exploring? Obviously, the Audio Research Ref 3 and LS 27 command a higher price.

I’m looking for a good synergy between pre-amp and power with correct output/input impedance matching. Music I listen include: vocal – both female and male, jazz, pop, chamber, symphony, etc. I’m looking for full-body mid, solid bass and extended treble, accurate sound stage, with a focus on vocal presentation.

Any suggestions are appreciated.
r0817

Showing 2 responses by tls49

I’m looking for a good synergy between pre-amp and power with correct output/input impedance matching.
How could anything be better than a Pass preamp?
R0817,

Here's a review for the Pass XP-10 and XA60.5. It gives you an excellent description of their sound, separately and together.

http://enjoythemusic.com/superioraudio/equipment/0712/pass_labs_xp_10_xa_60_5.htm

It's very easy to understand why the reviewer says what he does, just from my experience with other Pass equipment.