Pass 30.5 is great amplifier and deserve the best preamp to match. The best, truly the best match that you can find, IMHO< is Joule-Electra LA-300ME (single ended) or LA-450ME (fully balanced). It has variable gain up to 8 dB and it has two output stages for low and high power amplifier's input impedance. Extremely user friendly with tube life span of about 5-10 years.
A few months ago, Harry Pearson of TAS gave "300" its 2010 HP Editor Choice Award. He wrote that it is the "most romantic preamplifier" (without euphonic coloration, of course). I wholehearly agree and if you read its owners reviews on line - all say the same: this preamp "grab" you and place you into the concert hall and does not let go. The best preamp I ever owned or even auditioned ( include CAT, REX, First Sound etc).
"450" is basically two "300" under one roof. Its obviously better but cost more $$$. I own "300" and I am extremely happy with it! It is truly the heart of my system.
Cheers !
A few months ago, Harry Pearson of TAS gave "300" its 2010 HP Editor Choice Award. He wrote that it is the "most romantic preamplifier" (without euphonic coloration, of course). I wholehearly agree and if you read its owners reviews on line - all say the same: this preamp "grab" you and place you into the concert hall and does not let go. The best preamp I ever owned or even auditioned ( include CAT, REX, First Sound etc).
"450" is basically two "300" under one roof. Its obviously better but cost more $$$. I own "300" and I am extremely happy with it! It is truly the heart of my system.
Cheers !