2. amps-preamps
  3. 139599-102231

PASS LABS XO.2 Preamplifier 3 Chassis or Pass Labs XP-10

I am looking for a used Pre from Pass Labs. The question is for those with experience in both or with one of the above mentioned. I don't want to spend $4500 for a XP-20 or more. I want to stay in budget. I can get a XO.2, the 3 chassis classic reference or a newer XP-10; and don't presume newer is better. I'm okay with older if it does what I want.  My future amp is a First Watt F7 or Pass XA. I'm looking for feedback on the Pre's. 
jahatl513
toddcowles
86 posts
 
I’ve owned the XP-20 for about 1.5 years now, picked it up used for $5k.  Swapped out from a McIntosh c2500.  I’ll second Karl’s sentiment, the XP-20 is dead quiet.  Literally, you can hear what “black” sounds like.  It’s extremely transparent, and doesn’t over do any one sound characteristic.  Not too bright, no bottom end bloat.  Quite literally, it’s perfect to my ears.
jahatl513 OP
83 posts
 
Toddcowless; you remind me of a good point I read in some reviews if I remember correctly, the XP-10 has bass plus, but XP-20 has bass in a controlled, subtle and appealing way. I've had some great CJ pre's like GAT version2, ET-7, and have an ET-5 and Premier 16LS2, and Premier 17LS. The most quiet were GAT -2 and ET7 as well my ET5. I can not say the Premier 16/17's are at all noisy, but they are warm and inviting with detail still. The XA25 arrives next Friday and I have a weeks worth of burn in till listening. Thanks for the XP-20 thoughts. I'm thinking.... 
jahatl513 OP
83 posts
 
Karl_desch, the upgrade to the 22 from the 10, is it worth the $$ spent? 
More to discover