2. amps-preamps
  3. 125767-20253

Used Pre - Ayre, Pass or Para JC2?

Just wondering what your thoughts were on these three possibilities. One feature I'm pretty sure I'll need is bypass.

I have the Parasound P7 and really like it, but I've also heard the Ayre gear and have been enthralled. Balanced in/outs a must.

Thoughts?
erik_squires
beyachad
7 posts
 
I owned the Ayre KX-1 and KX-5 (Twenty) for a number of years. Both are terrific pre-amps however only the KX-5 does bypass and it does it very well as it adjusts the volume automatically and you can adjust the gain settings. The KX-5 also has balanced in and outs. 
Post removed 
ricred1
2,064 posts
 
I had the Paramount JC2 a couple of years ago. Initially I thought it was good, but I quickly sold it. In my system it didn't provide details and open up the soundstage like I expected. I was going from a DAC straight into the amp.
ricred1
2,064 posts
 
Sorry, previous post should read: Parasound JC2.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,503 posts
 
The Ayre K1xe is about as good as you can get....even though its a bit long in the toothe. I was wondering what the need for bypass is.....the Ayre has a tape out setting....wouldn’t that suffice? Read the reviews of the Ayre unit....its really a wonderful preamp....and it will be trouble free for your grandchildren
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