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Entry to the world of pass labs preamps
Hi guys, I have recently been set down a whole new audio path. I have made the switch from my vintage McIntosh to a ummm, less vintage Threshold amplifier and passive preamp set up. I have been interested in Nelson Pass and Threhold gear since the early 90's when I was introduced to both Threshold and the audiophile hobby. So with the future in mind I want to get a Pass labs preamp that I can grow into.
Any suggestions as to which of the older Pass Labs preamps are the ones to look out for? I have read a lot of great things about the Threshold fet/10 preamp but wonder if I should go for a newer Pass design. I have been looking at the Aleph p preamp, mainly because there are a few around for sale right now, any good? what are the hits and what are the misses? any duds in the group? The real limiting factor is my budget, I would like to keep it around $2000ish if possible. Any suggestions? I really appreciate any and all help guys, all the best, Jeremy
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Jeremy JusticeGentlemen of Distinction |
#2
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Jeremy,
I would try a demo or previously owned XP-10 from Reno Hi Fi. It is a great sounding preamp that is also built like a tank. Mark usually has some tremendous deals. Best, Ken |
#3
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I've just made the switch in the other direction not because I found anything wrong with the Threshold but mainly because I missed the looks of the McIntosh.
Here's a link with a review of the Threshold... http://www.stereophile.com/solidprea...t10/index.html PM sent! Last edited by McPlanar; 04-21-2014 at 02:09 PM. |
#4
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I've heard the X1 head-to-head with the XP-10, paired with the X150.5 and the XA30.5. The XP-10 has greater resolution, speed, and lower noise floor, while the X1 has more body, warmth and bass fullness. With my XA30.5 and speakers, I preferred a less lean presentation. Both are very musical, so you can't lose either way.
Build quality of both are stellar. The XP-10 has finer volume gradations and a nicer remote, and uses less energy, but is single chassis. The X1's display glass is less reflective, which allows you to see the display better - I found the XP-10's display hard to read. I don't think you can find the XP-10 for $2k yet, but you certainly can with the X1. |
#5
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Thanks for all the info guys!
Dale I have been looking for that exact set up...until last night when I gave up and ordered a West ps30r phonostage. I just wish Mr. Pass would put more then 4 inputs in his designs.
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Jeremy JusticeGentlemen of Distinction Last edited by Masterlu; 04-21-2014 at 05:23 PM. Reason: Posting of emails is not permitted on the Forum. |
#6
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Jeremy - congratulations on your purchase of the Whest PS.30R phono stage. It is an excellent value which I find to be competitive well beyond its price. I should mention that more recent versions which have the gain and loading switches accessible by a removable panel are supposed to sound even better than earlier versions. Hopefully the one you're getting has the access panel. Please let us know how you like it once it has had adequate time to settle into your system.
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#7
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Will do Bill, I found a great deal on the Whest and just couldn't pass it up. It is on another level then the rest of the gear I have but I wanted something I could work around for a while, I think it will do the trick nicely.
I was also thinking it would work great running balanced with a balanced Pass Labs preamp.
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Jeremy JusticeGentlemen of Distinction |
#8
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So has anyone compared the Aleph p to the x1?
Thanks for the input guys, I know this is entry level stuff but you got to start somewhere. All the best , J
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Jeremy JusticeGentlemen of Distinction |
#9
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Anyone compare the Aleph P to the x1? What about the Threshold fet/10 to a aleph p or x1?
Thanks so much for the info guys, I know these are entry level noob questions but you got to start somewhere. I really appreciate the guidance from those more experienced then me. All the best guys, J
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Jeremy JusticeGentlemen of Distinction |
#10
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Anyone compare the Aleph P to the x1? What about the Threshold fet/10 to a aleph p or x1?
Thanks so much for the info guys, I know these are entry level noob questions but you got to start somewhere. I really appreciate the guidance from those more experienced then me. All the best guys, J
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Jeremy JusticeGentlemen of Distinction |
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