Alternative to Ayre k-5XeMP preamp.


Hello all. I am looking for a preamp which provides 3 balanced inputs. I am happy with Ayre k-5xeMP but it has only 2 balanced inputs. I want to stay in the similar budget for a used preamp that is sonically comparable to Ayre (+/- 2.5 K). Higher up Ayre line has 3 inputs but are expensive. Any suggestions? I appreciate any help. Thanks.

celestial_audio

I used to own the K-5xeMP and it was a very good preamp.  I moved up to the former Ayre flagship K-1xe which has 3 balanced inputs. It is a significant step up.  Same Ayre quality, same Ayre reliability.  You can probably find a used one for ~$3K or less.

+1 @jc4659 Here’s a nice K-1xe — might be a bit over your price target, but some things are just worth paying for, and you’d be getting your needed inputs and a big sonic upgrade. I think you know what to do here.
https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649930390-ayre-k-1xe-factory-tuned-up/

Best of luck.

Thanks. I shall consider K-1xe. Hopefully its phono is as good as P5xe that I am currently using. Just the age on these units give me slight pause...