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What is the best 5k-plus Preamp with balanced outs and Phono stage?

I am looking for a preamp with a great phono stage to replace my Anthem D2V and match up with my Ayre MXR 20's. 

My system complete system includes the following...

Ayre MXR-20 mono amps
Aerial VT20 speakers
Blusound and Codex DAC
Oppo 105
Music Hall MM 5.1 turntable 
Cardas speaker cables and balanced interconnects.

I am currently using a Anthem D2V with a Klyne SK5a (phono stage)

I appreciate any feedback, especially from those familiar with Ayre products.


billm143
redcarerra
55 posts
 
A second hand aesthetix Janus signature is what I have and enjoy very much.  An Atma-Sphere MP3 would be another to consider I would think though the Janus has more flexibility in terms of cartridges.
dweller's avatar
dweller
3,859 posts
 
Audio Research SP-20.
bdp24's avatar
bdp24
10,243 posts
 
How much over $5,000? for a little over, the EAR-Yoshino 868PL. For a lot over, the same company's 912.
billm143 OP
7 posts
 
Great feedback. I have my work cutout. 
I have no problem going a bit over. With all the options it comes down to system matching and value proposition. I learned that in many cases paying 10k versus 5k may not equate to 50% better sound. 
shadorne's avatar
shadorne
7,491 posts
 
I second the EAR-Yoshino & AR SP-20. Also try to audition the Macintosh C2600 - it is a very capable tube preamp with an exceptional full feature phono stage and a warm yet detailed sound.
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