2. amps-preamps
  3. 1374333135

What should I upgrade first amp or preamp?

I need your help. I have OPPO BDP-105 connected to PASS Labs XP-10 and XA-30.5 driving 89 dB at 4 Ohm Snell C7. Looking to upgrade my system and planning to spend $ 3000-4000. I live in the apartment building and unfortunately can't listen to music very loud (no more than 58-62 on the XP-10 display).
What would you suggest to do, upgrade preamp to XP-20 first or amp to two XA-60.5 or to XA-100.5 and why. Upgrading an amp is more problematic due to the space constrains.
What will I gain and what should be the difference in sound in each of those cases?
Thank you.
karapuz
ejlif's avatar
ejlif
1,366 posts
 
Since you say you can't listen loud its a no brainier the preamp.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
I agree with Ejlif. A new preamp would be a better choice over a new amp. Looking at your system, though, I think your weakest component is the Oppo. Both your amp and preamp are 0 feedback, fully balanced designs. Take advantage of those features by getting a source that is a better match for them. The first player that comes to mind is an Ayre C5. It should play all the audio formats your Oppo does and is a much better match to your current system. There are other good players, as well, but that would be my 1st choice.
brownsfan
1,508 posts
 
I agree with Zd. Another option would be to send your Oppo to ModWright. I think you will be very pleased with what comes back.
karapuz OP
9 posts
 
Thank you for your responds. I looked at ModWrite ipgrades befoere, however I'm not a big fan of tubes and prefer SS in all chains.
lapierre
547 posts
 
Why not upgrade power cords and add power conditioner which will be far cheaper than adding new component.
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