Amp/Preamp Asylum: Have you caompared XP-10 with Ayre K-1xe or ARC Ref-II ? by audioheaven Looking for a new Amp or Preamp? If you're after tubes, post over here.

For Sale Ads FAQ / News / Events

Posted by audioheaven (A ) on November 16, 2008 at 10:08:35

In Reply to: RE: How does XP-10 compare with X 0.2 ? posted by RD on November 15, 2008 at 12:00:05:

My short list is now:

Ayre K-1xe
Pass Labs XP-10.
ARC Ref-II
Asthetix Calypso

About XP-10 and K-1xe:
Both are solid state.
Both have external power supply (I think).
Both have XLR in and out (which is my requirements).
Both have similar price in used market around $4K.

My original preference was towards tube preamp. Weighty, silky, transparent and very musically involving sound. Will I miss the involving sound of tube by going with the solid state preamp ?
I have heard many quality problem with Asthetix Calypso. It gets too hot and tube selection.

I am wondering how the Ayre or Pass Labs will compare with ARC REF-II ? ARC REF-II also falls in the similar price category. I will definitely listen myself to these preamps though.

This post is made possible by the generous support of people like you and our sponsors:

Kimber Kable

---

[ Top of Page ] [ Contact Us ] [ Support/Wish List ] [ Copyright © 2024, Audio Asylum, all rights reserved ]

---

[ General ] [ Speakers ] [ Tubes ] [ Vinyl ] [ Digital ] [ Hi-Rez ] [ Video Asylum ] [ Cables ] [ Tweaks/DIY ] [ Music ] [ Films ]

---