Ayre K-5xeMP vs. Electrocompaniet - EC 4.8 MK II, or others?


I am looking to add a preamp to my current set up (Kef reference 1, Coda continuum TS power amp and Exasound e62 DAC  - Kimber hero balanced cable) and wonder if anyone could provide advice, opinions or other options in the $3,000 range?  The current set up is the best I've ever heard the kef's sound, however I feel am missing something.  I am considering the Ayre K-5xeMP or the Electrocompaniet - EC 4.8 MK II.  Open to tubes as well and curious about EAR, audiovalve and the Modwright LS 100.  

I used to have a hegel h360 and found it laid back, thin and detailed.  The Coda is warmer, with a more forward presentation and great macro and micro dynamics - this is a huge improvement for me over the hegel, but again something is missing...

Thoughts?
cshadow

Showing 1 response by audiom3

I haven't listened to the other pre but I can say if you go with the Ayre, you will love it.  For the $2k range that they're selling for, they'd be near impossible to beat.  And if anything goes wrong with it, you're in great hands.