Pre-amp recommendation


Hi
My 2 channel reference setup is almost complete.
I'm looking for a suitable pre-amp to complete the setup.
A few that I'm considering :
Cary SLP 05 (used)
Cary 98
Pass Labs X02 (used)
Budget is limited to $5K.
Any other brands are also acceptable

My setup
Source : Esoteric K01
Pre-am : Densen B200 (for now)
Amps : Threshold SA/1 mono blocks ( Mids & Highs)
Sub Amp : Gallo Ref SA
Speakers : Gallo 5LS

It's almost impossible for me to audition so any help will be highly appreciated.
Thanks

shahzada123

Showing 1 response by zd542

"It's almost impossible for me to audition so any help will be highly appreciated.
Thanks

Shahzada123 (Threads | Answers | This Thread)"

The preamp is the hardest and most important piece to get right. Lucky for you, almost impossible isn't the same as impossible. If I'm not mistaken, your K01 has a volume control. I would use that and wait as long as you have to, until you are able to select the right preamp. Otherwise, you'll just be doing all the usual things people do, when they don't get the right preamp. Cables, power products, tweaks, tubes...etc.