Tube preamp for Pass XA 60.8?

[Jdsmoke]

Originally Posted by daveneumann

I enjoy my XP 22 with XA60.8 amps. It is a very dynamic, transparent, detailed, and quiet combination. However, I miss some of the liquidity, 3D, bloom, and beauty that tubes can provide.

Requirements for a tube preamp: balanced design, remote, dead quiet, liquidity of tubes without being overly warm or sweet. My budget is in the $10,00 - $15,000 range new or used. Since I am using the XP27, all I need is a line stage.

I would appreciate hearing about your specific experience with a tube preamp and XA amps, especially the XA60.8. I talked with Kent at Pass Labs and he said the XA60.8 plays well with just about any tube preamp, but he did not make any specific recommendations other than to name a few company names.

Options I am considering include ARC Ref 6SE, VAC Signature SE (used), Aric Motherload II, Ayon Auris II, Backart Labs Rhythm, Zesto Leto II.

Thanks in advance for any experience and advice you can share.

Dave

I have the ARC Ref 6SE and love it. Great combination with classic tube sound and the dynamics of Pass.