which new preamp for Pass X.5?

[5spheres]

I've been using the X0.2 with my X600.5 mono blocks. The sound is great except it can stray too warm / sweet at times depending on AC quality and cabling. I'm therefore thinking about replacing the X0.2 with a more neutral sounding preamp, possibly from the current Pass lineup.

How do the XP-20 and XP-30 stack up in this regard? I'm sure than better the X0.2 in most measures but my primary objective is to get a slightly less warm / sweet sound?

Suggestions from other manufacturers? Thanks

 

[jpspock]

I have tried XP10 and 20, and really I have a great respect for them. But my XA100.5 sounds very better with a ARC REF. It's another world

 

[Redwingnine]

I have a X 2.5 preap mated to a XA 30.5. Its a perfect match.

 

[5spheres]

jpspock: Can you describe how the ARC sounds different from the XP-10 / 20? Is it more neutral? I'm also considering the ARC Ref 3 but have come across reports of impedance mismatch with Pass amps

 

[Zen Mod]

impedance mismatch ?

hardly .