2. amps-preamps
  3. 147550-14077

High End SS Preamplifier Ayre, EMM Labs, ML, or Pass

I have Clayton M300's that I'm looking to pair with a SS preamp to drive Von Schweikert VR-5 Anni's. Looking for opinions on Ayre KX-R/Twenty, Pre2, or XP-20/30 or other as potential options (ML). Interested in members opinions on possible options. Looking for that neutral, transparent, accurate tonal harmonic musical reproduction that isn't analytical, dry, lean, or fatiguing.  
cvman
soundsrealaudio's avatar
soundsrealaudio
756 posts
 
What is your source?
tom_hankins
928 posts
 
Ayre has always had a slight dryness to me. I owned the K1-xe, and auditioned the KXR. I owned an all Ayre system at the time. I ended up going tubes with a BAT REX preamp.
Fast forward....around 3 years ago listened to an Audionet PRE G2, bought it and entire Audionet system. The best preamp I've owned or heard. Check the reviews.
browndt
97 posts
 
I concur, go with an excellent tube preamp. I have tried several of the preamps you mention but no SS preamp can equal 
say, an Allnic or ARC preamp. The BAT is also a good choice. 
Be careful, the types of tubes used have a HUGE impact on sound quality. 
jafant
18,959 posts
 
tom_hankins
You have owned some incredible gear!  Which factor(s) switched your B.A.T. REX to the Audionet PRE G2 ?  Happy Listening!
jafant
18,959 posts
 
4425
Mark Levinson is very fine gear indeed. However, D'Agostino,  is the next league of evolution.  Happy Listening!
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