Pass X1 preamp

[blackraven]

Today I was able to take home the new all tube version of the Van Alstine FET preamp to compare the the X1. With the brief listening that I have done, it has convinced me that a tube preamp is the way to go. The FET has brought out that nice lush midrange while maintaining its air and transparency. The sound stage is wider with the FET and vocals are to die for. There is more texture to the music. Bass is a little tighter with the X1 but overall punch is about the same. The X1 is a little smoother with a little more detail but not much more. Cymbals sound more natural and have more air with the FET. I could certainly live with the FET. The X1 is a great preamp but I miss the tube midrange and warmth that tubes bring. It may not be the most accurate but it just sounds right. And after much contemplation and reading a thread on the AudioShark forum I have come the conclusion that detail and accuracy are not nearly as important as what sounds good to me.