Audio Electronic Supply AES/Cary AE3 MkII preamp

I was hoping to hear more from AES MkII owners. Maybe there aren't many.

I had the DJH version a few years back and the basic AES model too. The DJH was much better than the basic model. While it was very good, it was prone to hum in my system, because of its non cap-coupled output stage. I'm thinking the MkII version might be a better match to my very nice Super Amp MkII.

The DJH has a big output and matches the older AES amp designs better, which did not have a driver stage (just like the Cary non-R amps) the R versions as well as the MkII version has a more normal input sensativity.

The new Superamp 2 has a good input driver stage and is very senitive. I can be used with passive preamps too, and it works wonderfully w/ the variable outputs of sources and DACs. I thought the AES MkII preamp might be a better match to it.

Incidentally the Superamp MkII benifits from better feet and a good stand.

Does anyone have any feedback for me.
Thanks!

Roblanger,

I'm glad to hear that the AE3 MkII matches well with the SixPacs. I've alway thought they may a great pair of amps.
I love my SuperAmp2.
Did you buy your six packs new or are they a later version? I understand that Cary improved the SixPacs as well with a better driver stage.
How does this combo sound to you?

Roblanger,
I forgot to say that you can buy the Cary soft feet for your your AE3 MkII for $40 from Cary.

The MkII may work better w/ your amps. The Super Amp MkII has full output w/ 1 volt input w/ 100k impedence and the AE3 MkII is a perfect match for it. The down side of the DJH is its 20 db gain which will clip many amps at the 9-10 o'clock position on the volume control.

Roblanger,
I understand that the new 6pacs (yours) are improved from what I read on AudioAsylum. Email or call Cary, they would be able to answer it.
They only make the DJH pre for Kevin Deal, probably until their supplies for production run out, as it really is discontinued. The new AES products have better transformers according to Cary. Also talking to Cary the DJH many be better in some ways but not all.

Sorry about the late response to your question.

I have used the DJH pre with solid state amps with excellent sonic results. The only drawback is its high 20 db output. The volume will max out at about the 10-11 o'clock volume knob position.

If you want it more normal with finer adjustments you will have to add and attenuator at its output or do a mod on the inside. Cary can supply the mod info. This preamp was originally designed for their tube amps w/o the input griver stage so hense the high output. The new AES mk11 has a normal output voltage and will work with a wider range of amps.

Stevehuff1,

That is a nice comparison.

The extra dynamics of the DJH con probably be contributed to the non-capacitor coupled output. The DJH has transformers potted in wax while the MkII has a decorative cover over the transformers, but the MkII is supposed to have better transformers. You can upgrade the caps in the MkII to improve the sound. The DJH is a signature version and already has upgraded oil caps.

As you described the MkII, I liked it better. It just needs to be upgraded into a signature vs. like the DJH is.

Thanks everyone one who posted on this thread, as I initially started it. There has been some excellent comments and inputs so lets keep it going. My system has moved to a smaller listening room so I'm going the passive preamp route.

I'm so impressed with the Superamp MkII that it is staying with me for the long hall. If I was going to get an AES preamp I'd go for the MkII. I think it has more potential in the long run by upgrading caps and feet. I think it might give the DJH a run for the money.

Everytime I've talked with Cary we talk about the Superamp 2 they can't go on enough about it. I'm wondering if it is a stripped down CAD120 with a similar circuit design (this is just a guess). I will be upgrading the caps (they highly recommend it) and feet somewhere down the road. I have tried other solid rubber feet to replace the stock rubber coated plastic feet with a large noticeable difference in sound clarity and air. The Cary soft shoes may be even more prnounced. I'll bet the same translates on the MkII preamp.

With Regards fellow audiophiles,

DJH only have one pre out but there is room to add another if you are handy.
Adding oil caps and Cary feet to the MkII might yield a better preamp, as it has better transformers.

I owned one years ago. To much gain for most power amps. Cary confirms it is 20 db gain, unless the last production of it was changed and not advertised on the AES site before it was taken down.