Pass Labs vs. McIntosh Preamps


Interested in hearing from anyone who has experience with the Pass Labs x2.5 or x1 AND the McIntosh c2200 or c46. What differences in sound quality/presentation could I expect? And how significant would the differences be?

The pre will be mated with a McIntosh MC-402. Aside from the benefit of synergy with the Mac pre, are there any other obvious strengths with either manufacturer?

Thanks in advance for any responses!
samson111
It's been a while but a Pass Labs combo I had in the house was jaw dropping in it's transparancy and a little weak in the bass with the Martin Logan Aerius I had at the time. I took it back because I could not stand to listen to any of my popular CDs through that system. Talk about hearing the source. I bought Musical Fidelity's best which has now been replaced with an MC402 and a C2300. I tried the MC2200 but it is not in the same league. Not even close. I can highly recommend the C2300 and the MC402 with my current speakers, Martin Logan Summits.
Gmartan,
which Musical Fidelity are you talking about?
Regards,
Florian Hassel
Gmartan: ...and a C2300. I tried the MC2200 but it is not in the same league. Not even close.

Glad to hear Mac improved on the C2200, it has always gotten mixed reviews. I had a friend purchase the C2200 and he was very disappointed.