I second the Ayre K-1xe! I just purchased one and it is the best preamp I’ve ever heard and I’ve had lots of them! It is much better the the Audio Research! I’ve owned the LS and a reference!
Looking for some recommendations about preamp options
It would be pairing with a Decware Torii amp. I want to buy something used that will be fairly easy to re-sell if I don't like it. Right now I am thinking about an Audio Research LS 27 or perhaps the Cary preamp SLP-05. I have heard the LS 27 equals or outperforms the Ref 5. I do see a Ref 3 offered here that is just a little out of my reach but could probably make it work. There is a LS 27 on AG right now but it is shipping from Spain and is wired for 220v. Not to big of a deal but a little more of a hassle than I really want if I am going to drop that kind of money. I am open to all recommendations. Perhaps even a TVC or a passive. My amp should have plenty of gain and I would not need long cables so impedance shouldn't be an issue. Steve over at Decware has designed a new Pre but it comes standard with only balanced ins and outs and to get it the way I want will be expensive and I am sure there is a couple of month wait for one. Thanks for your time. I love this forum, amazing amounts information.
Andrew
Andrew