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Preamps: Ayre K-5xeMP vs Pass Labs XP-10 vs Arcam C49

I used to own the Ayre K-5xeMP and it's still the best preamp I've ever owned. I sold it in the interest of trying something different.

With that said, has anyone compared the K-5xeMP with the Pass Labs XP-10 or the Arcam C49? I know the latter isn't perceived to be in the same class as Ayre and Pass Labs, but I'm curious to hear any impressions. It has hardly any press (no reviews that I've seen).
Ag insider logo xs@2xwasquatch
don_c55
1,025 posts
 
Wait for the new Pass Labs XP-12!

http://positive-feedback.com/industry-news/pass-labs-xp-12-preamplifier/
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wasquatch OP
8 posts
 
@don_c55 Well now that's an interesting development... thanks for sharing!
nitewulf
422 posts
 
@OP, I am using the K5xeMP now and I agree, it is a sweet preamp, and also the best preamp I've used up to this point. So why don't you either buy another one, or if upgrading, buy the KX5-20 or the KXR-20, depending on budget.
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wasquatch OP
8 posts
 
@nitewulf That's actually what I'm leaning towards now. I wanted to try something different just for kicks, but the Ayre was so good that I can't quite get its sound out of my head. I'm temporarily using a Parasound P5 and it's a radical difference. It's lacking in depth and is much more forward. Treble definition and timbre isn't as good and sounds dry in comparison to the K-5xeMP. It's funny because the Parasound is quite good for its price point, but the Ayre was on a different level.
nitewulf
422 posts
 
@wasquatch, I think the most comparable Parasound would be the Halo JC2 linestage. Which was on my shortlist when shopping. But honestly I am so impressed with the Ayre sound that I think I will stick with Ayre amplification gear for the future.
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