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!

 

128x128nickrobotron
vthokie83
656 posts
 

I have not heard the Denafrips Athena, but am extremely happy with my Denafrips Hades pre-amp driving a Denafrips Thallo amp. I do love the “house” sound of their products; slightly warm, wide soundstage with depth, effortless power with great attack, terrific vocals, and no irritating treble. Driving bookshelf Buchardt S400MkII speakers. Only negative I have about Denafrips products is no trial period

jdub39
486 posts
 

Add the Musical Fidelity MS8 preamp to the short list , its clean ,layered , musical and dynamically an exciting piece to listen to, I have mine paired with an Parasound Halo JC5 and it's just a wow pairing.

richtruss
163 posts
 

I’ve had wonderful results with the Holo Serene KTE version.

 

robshaw
226 posts
 

I have a Benchmark LA-4 line amp, and love it. About a year now. Have it running   a Meitner MA-1 DAC balanced. Mono sub out connection is nice, Volume mechanism is to die for, very accurate. Rory,  at Benchmark is great to deal with and quite knowledgeable, not to mention a very nice guy.  They offer a 30 day trial period, free shipping and a 5 year warranty and are located in upstate NY.  I may be buying a second one soon for another system.  Top shelf stuff. Hope this helps!

 

bobbyloans
61 posts
 

I’m a fan of Parasound and have the JC2. No complaints 

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