As noted above, the BAT VK-33SE meets exactly what you are looking for in all aspects. I have had mine for about 2 years, and it is truly fantastic. It has recently been replaced with the next generation, model VK-80, and at the same retail price. I will be moving upward to the new VK-90 preamp (new generation) by mid-year and that is the only reason I will let go of my VK-33SE. I also have a BAT VK-90T (power amp) and VK-P90 (phono stage) which is why I am moving up to the VK-90. Fabulous products, fabulous company, incredible build quality and sound quality. You are welcome to PM me if you would like any further information on the BAT products I own. Best to you on your quest.
Which Line Level, Balanced Preamplifier?
I am running Monitor Audio Gold 100 5G speakers and am still deciding on what amplifier I am going to use. I came from a low wattage system when I bought these speakers, and they're quite demanding, so I am looking at something powerful. Almost everything is in the running, but I know I want it to do its job and not have too much character, so I'm considering Benchmark, Parasound, Ayre, Denafrips, etc... This is a different discussion though.
I want to shift my focus to preamps because it might help me dial in my amp choice along the way. I am looking for a fun sound. Not warmth, necessarily, but an engaging, deep and wide soundstage. Definitely not clinical or dry. I have been reading and have been sold on all of these:
-Ayre K-5Xe-mp
-Wyred 4 Sound STP-SE
-Denafrips Athena
-Parasound JC2
-Benchmark HPA4 or LA4
-PS Audio *preamp coming this year* (I'd have to wait for this one, but I'm excited about it)
I would love to hear a strong, educated opinion before I spend the money. Open to other models as well. Tried to find an older model PASS, but people don't really universally love them and I've read they can be a little less engaging in the wrong system.
Thanks in advance!