2. amps-preamps
  3. 123612-9095

Preamp... Solid State or Tube

I am looking for 2-ch preamp that must have HT bypass option to mate with my existing HT processor.  

My budget is 10K for this upgrade.  Couple of preamps comes to mind but I have no experience with these components.  

Ayre KX-5 Twenty
Aesthetix Calypso 
 
My system consist of following components, 

Speakers - B&W 800D2
Source - Aurender N10,  Modwright Elyse DAC, Raysonic CD-128
Amps - Modwright KWA150SE (Pair of them being used in bridge mode)
Processor - Krell 707
Cables - Verastarr Grand Illusion Statement and Signature series

Any recommendations will be highly appreciated. 

128x128lalitk
almarg's avatar
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almarg
9,670 posts
 
Lalit, a point to keep in mind is that the input impedance of your Modwright amps is specified as "Min. 15K at 50Hz; 23K at 1Khz."  While it's not made clear in the manual if that applies to the unbalanced input or the balanced input or both, some tube preamps will not perform at their best when driving impedances that low.  Including the Calypso you mentioned in your initial post.

Atmasphere preamps, however, will certainly have no trouble dealing with such an impedance.

Good luck.  Regards,
-- Al
 
maplegrovemusic's avatar
maplegrovemusic
1,113 posts
 
Are your plans to pick a preamp sight un heard and never look back ? If not just start the process . If you are going used the market availability will decide your options . One full proof way of getting a match is to first go with same brand as your amp . Or just see if one brand comes up more than others here ? Great way to pick a component !
dodgealum's avatar
dodgealum
1,406 posts
 
Almarg: Can you describe the impact on the sound of using a higher input impedance amp such as the Modwright and a linestage that would like to see less impedance?
dodgealum's avatar
dodgealum
1,406 posts
 
....sorry, I meant LOWER impedance amp.....
lalitk's avatar
lalitk OP
5,593 posts
 
@lancelock - thank you for the info.  

@almarg - I am seeing great recommendations all around.  Since I can't possibly try them all, I am thinking about visiting AXPONA 2015 next month and check out some of the aforementioned gear. 
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