Which Pre-Amp Pass Labs or Audio Research

I have been using a PASS X250 and now X25.5, I originally had it with a passive preamp and it worked fine, then I wanted to try tubes bought a Audio Research SP16. Boy was I disappointed. Kept it about a month then bought a matching PASS X2.5 preamp running balanced and it was an eye opening experience.

My advice get the PASS preamp, you wont regret it!

It all depends what type of sound you like. Pass is clean and timbre-accurate and very neutral.

AR has tubes and adds harmonics and bloom but timbre isn't accurate - it has more of a whitish sound, but beautiful just the same.

Personally I prefer the Pass but it's a matter of taste - apples vs oranges. Both are excellent.

"AR has tubes and adds harmonics and bloom but timbre isn't accurate - it has more of a whitish sound, but beautiful just the same."

How do you know the timbre isn't accurate on the AR? As far as I know, there's no way to measure timbre.

I had an XP20 with X350. It sounded amazing!! I am not a fan of audio research based on the few times I heard them in showrooms so I would clearly suggest the pass.

Thanks Guys, I`ve been into tubes since the 70`s and have been thinking about change but could never get the information you wonderful audio enthusiastic enthusiast have supplied me with. I have one questioned the preamps before the xp10-20-30 the X2.0 its a possibility I can get it for a pretty fair price should I or go with one of the newer preamps? Best regards, 813Sheridan