New preamplifier - Backert Rhumba Extreme, Aesthetix Calypso Signature, Ayre KX5 Twenty
I’m planning to listen to a few preamplifiers in the coming weeks. I want to replace my Parasound P6 preamplifier and A23 power amplifier. These are currently feeding my Vandersteen Quatro CTs. I have a 16 by 26 listening room. Digital source is a Bluesound NodeX and my vinyl rig is a new Modwright PH 9.0XT. Fed by a Technics 1210GR with Hana SL cartridge. Also have a VPI Prime Scout with Ortofon Black mm cartridge. Home theater is a must in my system that currently servers double duty with home theater.
Has anybody compared these three preamplifiers? I also plan to soon pick a companion amplifier as part of this major upgrade.
I had a strong lean to the Backert without hearing. Solely based on discussion and feedback. Recently after discussing with a few dealers the Aesthetix system is a rising candidate. (Calypso signature preamp with Atlas Signature or Atlas Eclipse Amplifier)
I was thinking of pairing the Backert Rhumba Extreme with the Ayre VX5-Twenty amplifier
I listen to a wide variety of music from Jazz to Blues. Classical has been finding its way more into my rotation.
Recent retired this is my end game system. No plan for upgrade cycle two years down the road. I’ll tackle the turntable and digital next year Vega S1 and VPI Signature 21 candidates at this time.
Has anybody compared these components or have some thoughts on their sound signatures? I want Stevie Ray in the room with me!
Thanks - David
@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.
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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.
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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 |
@dotto81 The solution is very simple. Find out what volume control setting satisfies the home theater setup. Use that setting when using the home theater processor as an input to the preamp. |
