2. amps-preamps
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Looking for a pre-amp (Pass, ARC, BAT, Sim, PS Audio)

Hello,

I would like some recommendations regarding what preamp to try in my system where I currently have a PS Audio DSD, Pass x250.8 and a pair of Focal Diva Utopias with all synergistic research interconnects. Just sold a PS Audio BHK preamp which was pretty nice, but would like something a bit faster without compromising the stage of the BHK. By-the-way, it was noticeably better having the BHK in the system then not having the preamp at all.

I am considering the ARC 5, 5SE, LS28, or the BAT VK42SE, 52SE, 33SE, or the Simadio P7, P8 Or Pass XP20, 22 next. I don’t see my-self zeroing in on any other brand/models right now.  I listen all all kind of music on Vinyl, CDs and stream Tidal.

Would you mind sharing your personal experiences with any of the above preamps (especially to contrast and compare these models/brands together). Would really appreciate any advise on which of the above preamps to go for. Thank you!
Ag insider logo xs@2xjmarshak
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jmarshak OP
157 posts
 
Hi @ddafoe
I don’t doubt the 740P / X250.8 sounds special based on past experience but I actually never heard the 740P in my set up so I can’t definitively comment. .. Still, Sim knows what they are doing when it comes to preamps and I keep saying that the X250.8 is a pass sweet spot.

One thing I do want to mention about the XP22 - if anyone is considering a pass preamp. You cant go wrong with Pass! The XP22 is excellent and Pass Labs customer service, support, concern for their customers and professionalism can not be beat (period) and yes I am referring to the man, Kent English :)

Happy listening..
zprr
306 posts
 
Happy to stumble on this thread as well.  I agree that Sim knows preamps.  Just completed a 2 week stint of comparing my 740p with an 850p and the ARC Ref 10 in my predominantly Sim system.  Definitely had been curious to test the Pass preamps as well.  
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jmarshak OP
157 posts
 
Interesting @zprr - Could you share your findings?  What did you think?
zprr
306 posts
 
Sure. The Ref10 edged out the 740p primarily due to increase in soundstage, a touch of warmth and overall was more engaging and less fatiguing. Detail/resolution were same. I was surprised how well the 740p held up, in my system. I know this may sound like heresy to some folks. The Ref10 had just been given a clean bill of health from ARC and my trial lasted over a week. The 850p in comparison brought an overall smoothness, increased resolution, cleaned up the soundstage, and increased musicality.  I have never experienced such a lack of fatigue. Anyway, 850p is now my new preamp.  I attribute this in large part to system synergy as I have Sim DAC and amp.
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jmarshak OP
157 posts
 
Excellent, thanks for sharring!  I love the expression aboud "never experienced such lack of fatigue" .. 'fatigue' is such an important consideration. Congrats and Enjoy the preamp, it's awsome.
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