Is there life after a KXR? Help

Mike,
I wanted to buy your KXR, I really did but I just bought the MX-Rs and that's too much at once. On the subject of BAT preamps, I've found them to work very well with solid state amps. I've used the VK 5i, VK 50se, and now the VK 51se over the past 11 years with a Krell FPB 600. I don't have it set up yet but very soon I will be using my VK 51se with the MX-Rs. I can't say for sure yet but I have no doubt the combination will work very well. I'm switching to the MX-Rs because they're considered a great match for the Vandersteen 5As. If you're curious on how this all works out, I can keep you posted. I plan to use the VK51se with the MX-Rs until I can comfortably afford a KX-R which may be a while.

Sonofjim- Yeah I know the feeling. I bought my MXRs last summer. I thought I could swing them both but the stock market collapse changed that. I like your system. I plan to try 5as some day. Thanks for the BAT confirmation. I'd love to hear how it turns out fro you. The VK52 is intriguing as it's has an upgrade path to the top of the line model.

I have compared the Lamm M1.2 Ref to the MXR's. Let's just say that the MXR has some catching up to do. The only thing with the Lamm's is they are very preamp dependent. They don't like much gain. I also had the latest MXR with the newer transformers and Cardas wiring. All owners of the MXR should have that done as it gets rid of the transformer hum. The Cardas wiring helps also but it still doesn't catch the Lamms.

Mtdking- I think comparing both amps without considering associated equipment is short sighted. I'd suspect the speakers you're playing them into would have an effect. For instance on my Aerial 20ts I suspect the MXRs would sound better, and on a pair of 5as the Lamms might do a better job since they don't have to drive the bass. At the end of the day they're both at the top of their respective classes and system matching would determine which option is "the best".

I only have experience with the Lamm 1.2 Ref. It drove Eggleston Andra 2's w/o any issues, controllung the big 12" woofer without sweat. FWIW, I would think both amps can drive all but the most demanding loads. So, the simple synergy aspect would be the one to focus on more I would think. The Ayre/ 5A combo seem to be making many a happy camper though. That said, I would certainly like to catch another listen to the Lamm's on my 5A's.