Preamp to mate with Pass 30.5

The Joule is worth a home audition, especially if you have good memories from a prior experience. IMO, the Joule and the Pass were perhaps more similar than different, and the combination went a tad too far into a rich and smooth presentation. While it did some interesting things, I ultimately found it dull for my tastes. I am sure that many will find such a combination quite pleasing. I have appreciated the BAT for providing a dynamic and clean synergy, also with low noise plus a balanced design. I think you are correct to worry about excess noise with the Pass and your very efficient speakers. Which is again why you should narrow down to 2-3 preamps, and do a home demo.

I think you have your answer. Do home demo on the best Pass, Joule, and BAT preamp you can afford. Let us know the result.

I've never tried Pass with Pass. Just haven't had that itch. But, no doubt, a wise consideration. I am certain these 3 would be quite distinct.