Pre-amp recommendation


Hi
My 2 channel reference setup is almost complete.
I'm looking for a suitable pre-amp to complete the setup.
A few that I'm considering :
Cary SLP 05 (used)
Cary 98
Pass Labs X02 (used)
Budget is limited to $5K.
Any other brands are also acceptable

My setup
Source : Esoteric K01
Pre-am : Densen B200 (for now)
Amps : Threshold SA/1 mono blocks ( Mids & Highs)
Sub Amp : Gallo Ref SA
Speakers : Gallo 5LS

It's almost impossible for me to audition so any help will be highly appreciated.
Thanks

128x128shahzada123
Steuspeed, it seems you have Gallo Reference speakers - bravo!! I have a pair of Ref. 3.1s (Front L/R) and Ref AVs for the remaining positions (Rear L/R, Center) in a 5.1 system. I truly love the CDT tweeter, what are your thoughts??

Best Wishes,

-RW-
I initially thought the CDT on my CL-3's was a tad bright ,but after couple hundred hours on them I am convinced I just never heard a tweeter with such an extended range.
Never thought I'd find a better tweeter than the Vifa rings on my Meadowlarks but CDT just might be.
Be careful with your choice of preamp as it has to drive both the SA1 (75kohm) and in parallel whatever the input impedance is of the Galo sub is. I cannot find this anywhere.

If it (the Galo amp) is 10khom to 50kohm this can present a combined impedance that could be to low for many tube preamps to sound at their best.

To be safe stick to low output impedance solid state preamps that have output impedances below <500ohms, preferably <100ohms. As the Pass XO-2 pre will have.

Cheers George
Good point there George.
Missed out the dual load.
Will keep in mind when deciding.
Thanks
That K01 would absolutely sing going into a Jeff Rowland preamp. He does MAGIC to music (the /magic' button is the battery suply. when you hear music off the grid, you never go back). If there were ANY way to do it, you should. A nice ayre is a strong 2nd (and easilly within your budget but easy aint always best); I would keep things quiet(er) by staying with solid state. The emotive (not emotiva) is sweet. Believe battery as well (or is hat veloce)?