2. amps-preamps
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Looking for a good balanced preamp: Atma MP-3?

I'm seeking a balanced preamp to be used with hybrid monoblocks and a variety of different 2-way speakers. My preference would be tube -though I would consider a good ss -and my budget is below $5000 retail.

The amps that I have sound more forward than I expected so I would be looking for a preamp that is certainly not aggressive. However, I definitely don't want a euphonic tube preamp that is used as a tone control. I believe that I can ease down the treble of the amps by changing the driver tubes.

I've considered the Atma-sphere MP-3 and I would be interested to know if anyone has experience with it? I've heard mixed reviews but have not heard one. Another that I've considered is the Simaudio Moon P-5.

Thanks for
sleepless

Showing 1 response by kurt_tank

kurt_tank
1,189 posts
 
Another option would be the Ayre K-1XE. This preamp is very well reviewed by the Audio magazines (both on-line as well as print). Used they go for under $5K, (and closer to $4K if you only want the line stage, although, the optional phono boards are well worth the price of admission). If you must buy new, (your post said the preamp should "retail" under $5K), the K-5xe is also very good, and would meet your budget constraints.

I use the K-1XE with my hybrid amps, the Lamm M2.1s. They work very well together, IMHO. (I believe I am done looking for amplification equipment for a very long time.)

Good Luck in your search!
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