New preamplifier - Backert Rhumba Extreme, Aesthetix Calypso Signature, Ayre KX5 Twenty

If all works out (uncertain) I will be buying an end game preamp this year. I have been considering the usual players mentioned here.

I would love to jump on the Backert wagon but have one minuscule issue with the front plate. It does not have a digital display that would enable me to see where the volume is set. Dials are old school and while I sit near my gear, It is paramount that I see a digital readout in volume. I keep hoping a new Backert faceplate with digital volume control is released, but that may never happen.

I had read on this site that someone asked Rogue about the RP-7 vs. the new RP-5 v2, and Rogue stated the RP-5 v2 sounds better. That is what I am leaning into considering it is a few thousand less than the LTA which is probably the best preamp out there at that price. Maybe the Backert beats it, but I just have to have a precision volume mechanism. 

@dotto81 Would be interested in knowing what your thoughts are with relation to the Linear Tube Audio preamp? Why are you not considering it?

I listen to a wide variety of music from Jazz to Blues. Classical has been finding its way more into my rotation. 

@dotto81 Your taste in music really should have no bearing on the choice of preamp! The electronics do not care what the genre is; its job is to amplify the signal with the least coloration possible. To date no-one has ever been able to sort out how to make electronics (or loudspeakers) that favor a certain genre.

I have the LTA under consideration.   One challenge is it’s not available to audition at dealers.  But my primary challenge with the unit is that it does not have a home theater bypass. I sent an email to LTA asking for recommendations for a work around to the HT bypass shortcoming.  Waiting for their response.
 

 If anybody has a recommendation to solve that problem I would like to hear. 
 

I don’t have any experience with any of your candidates regarding a new preamp, but if home theatre is a must, then this will help with finding something with HT bypass capability.

https://www.audiophile.no/en/articles-tests-reviews/item/426-amplifiers-with-processor-input

 I think the amp pairing with the Vandersteens to be the primary concern. That being said, with your pre options, I would look at Ayre ss amplifiers and the matching pre.