Jérôme.......Not a problem. Threads have a way of getting back on track if needed.

Of all the different phono preamps discussed so far in the range I am looking, the Pass Labs XP-15 seems to stand out.

The Pass Xono and XP15 are great values - it will be difficult to find a phonostage with similar resolution and flexibility anywhere near that price point. I heard the Aesthetix Rhea in direct comparison to the Xono and the Rhea was veiled, noisy, lacking refinement and resolution. The Pass is more neutral with better resolution and excellent dynamics.

You can find better flow than the Pass with some tube stages. The phono stage in my Shindo Monbrison offers more flow and even more refinement, but only if matched with the right step-up and cartridge. The Pass is easier to match to any cartridge.

Just my experience so far...

That's why I was suggesting the C-J Premier 15...

That's why I have both an XP-15 and the phonostage in my Shindo Monbrison ;)

The Pass Labs XP-15 is looking like it is on the short list. I have read only good comments and excellent reviews on this solid state phono preamp. Here are the published specs.


http://i453.photobucket.com/albums/q...sXP15specs.jpg


I know, no tubes, and supposedly there will be some absence of bloom and dimensionality, but I'm not so sure about that. The Pass Labs XP-15, by all accounts is quite a performer. I like the low current draw from the wall, too.

Dan .....

While I cannot comment specifically on this phono pre-amp I have owned some Pass Labs gear in the past. Specifically the XP-10 pre and the XA30.5 amplifier. My experience with the brand was of complete satisfaction. That XA30.5 was a seriously sweet sounding heavily class A biased amp.
While a direct comparison cannot be made from one type of product to another within the line, I do believe this may be a move in the right direction for you.
My experience was that of wonderful resolution and superbly defined soundstage characteristics. While always maintaining excellent musicality without too much warmth, but never sounding overly analytical or lean.

I know this is a tough choice and I would not want to get on the merry go round with this category either. But my experience tells me that you are leaning in the right direction.

If you have not yet done so, I would recommend speaking to Reno Hi Fi on his specific model. They sell a lot of Pass product and should have a wealth of information to share.

Dan......The chart you posted may be incorrect, I think the MC gain is 56/66/76.....

http://www.passlabs.com/pdfs/product...ls/xp15-om.pdf

Jeff.......Yes, I see from the manual the switch positions reflect a different set of numbers. I pulled that chart off the Pass Lab site. :dunno:

I like the very plain and common-sense language that the manual referred to above is written.

Buddy.......Funny that you should mention Reno HiFi. I was just talking to Mark at Reno HiFi today. :thumbsup: