You'd probably be better off making the move from the ARC to a Herron VTSP-3A(r02).
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http://www.cryoset.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=415&osCsid=95ddfef4fdc1d211879793363... Sticking to the components you started the post with. No doubt the Pass is a more refined amp than your current ARC amp. Maybe just upgrade one thing at a time so you don't get confused or discouraged. Really not sure the Pass is a positive change over your LS25MKII, so maybe keep it for awhile and try some tubes and spend less for now. Totally agree with others using a tube preamp on the X150.5. So maybe spend more later and step it up to a Herron, or other later. |
Have to agree with the suggestion that you get the ARC Ref 3 (or above). It is a phenomenal pre-amp, and I doubt you'll find anything for less than $6000+ that will sound as good. Just incredible detail resolution, soundstaging and imaging. I don't think you'll find many (if any) SS amps that will equal it. Team it with one of the Pass SS amps, and you'll likely be amazed. |
First, I thank you all for your kind and interesting answers. I know ARC Ref. 3, I often hear it play at a friend of mine's home. but here in Italy, where a live, I can find it (used) only at a much higher price than X2+X150.5 (say 4500€ vs 3500€). One question: some of you advice using the X150.5 with a tube pre amp, maybe with an ARC preamp: I know X150.5 has a low input impedance; isn't it an issue with (most) tube preamps ? I guess it should be with ARC preamps, which 'love' high input impedance power amps. |
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