So are you guys saying that you need to run the K1x from the balanced inputs as well to get the most out of it?
I am running mine balanced to the amps (Parasound JC-1s)but my DAC and phono are both single ended. Is this such a problem that I am missing something?
I've never tried the Ref 3, but the K1x was probably the most significant upgrade I've ever done to my system. One significant advantage of the K1x over the Ref 3 not mentioned is that you don't have to bother with turning the thing on and off everytime you use it. Most tube pre amps I've used take up to a minute to fully wake up and then you have to worry about shutting it off when you are done. If you are already using a solid state amp and don't have any tubes to bother with I say why bother. The K1x sounds so good you won't care.
Also I owned the V-5xe amp, and while I thought it was pretty good I would say it wasn't in the same league as the K1x is. It didn't float my boat at all. I think you are wise to consider an upgrade there as well.
I am running mine balanced to the amps (Parasound JC-1s)but my DAC and phono are both single ended. Is this such a problem that I am missing something?
I've never tried the Ref 3, but the K1x was probably the most significant upgrade I've ever done to my system. One significant advantage of the K1x over the Ref 3 not mentioned is that you don't have to bother with turning the thing on and off everytime you use it. Most tube pre amps I've used take up to a minute to fully wake up and then you have to worry about shutting it off when you are done. If you are already using a solid state amp and don't have any tubes to bother with I say why bother. The K1x sounds so good you won't care.
Also I owned the V-5xe amp, and while I thought it was pretty good I would say it wasn't in the same league as the K1x is. It didn't float my boat at all. I think you are wise to consider an upgrade there as well.