Preamp choices:Short list

Go with the BAT Preamp. I have a VK50-SE that I acquired last Summer. I love it ! I too prefer a Fully (and truly) Balanced Audio chain that a Single ended one. With XLR, you can hot swap cables without worrying about blowing things up. With RCA, you can’t by design.

I'm also not a fan of point to point wired Amps/Preamps. PCB's are the only way and I've been Troubleshooting them for over 25 years. Much easier to repair than point to point (even if a trace gets burnt now and then).

I like my new Luxman CL1000 and I only play SACDs and CDs. Also, I like the ARC Reference 10 preamplifier, but then, I am an old tube guy.

@mazian what is wrong with balanced, in what way would SE be better?

Consider looking for a VAC preamp.  All previously made equipment is still fully supported by the factory and the quality and sound is exceptional.

The people in here speaking up AGAINST the common mode noise rejection offered by true balanced connections/designs are Luddites.


In no case is SE better than balanced.