2. amps-preamps
  3. 181962-72674

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!

 

nickrobotron

Showing 1 response by tomaswv

tomaswv
244 posts
 

I am very happy with my Bel Canto Pre5. It is dead quiet, fully balanced, and does everything I need it to do. I think the sound is very neutral and resolving but not analytical. I run Bel Canto monoblocks (500m) but have also used it with an Audio Van Alstine Set 120 amp. I use a Cambridge 851N streamer and DAC and my hires and DSD files sound excellent. Dali Mentor5 speakers. The Pre5 is value for money and built to last. And a good company who answers questions promptly.

I haven’t owned but have heard the Benchmark HPA4 and I would consider that as well. Dead quiet, resolving, and neutral. Especially if you do headphones. 

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