Best Balanced Solid State/Tube Preamps

02-28-06: Mitch2
Tvad, why did you just sell your Modwright? It looked like a sweet set up in which you put some extra thought and money with the black gates and all. What did you find to work better?

Good question. It came down to a matter of flavors. I replaced the Modwright with a Lamm LL2. Each does some things very well, and the Modwright does some things better...more open, larger image, quieter. I wish I had a preamp that combined the best of both. Such a beast probably exists, but I suspect at a much higher price.

I own the Aesthetix Janus, which I love, but I've heard they have issues when used with Ayre amps, FWIW.

Yes, I meant tube OR solid state. I love the Modwright unit, but I don't think I am getting anywhere close to the full potential of the Ayre V-5Xe amp using the single ended connections. Hence, I want a balanced preamp. Ayre is certainly on the short list. I just wanted to hear other suggestions before I go audition.

Currently, I am using an Arcam AV8 pre/pro and I have to believe that I am losing a great deal not having a dedicated preamp. Let me know if you think otherwise.

The Ayre K-1XE seems like the natural selection to go with the Ayre amp you have.

Kmiller5, you mention that you love the Modwright unit. Are you speaking about an SWL 9.0SE preamp or about your Sony 999ES? If you're talking about the SWL 9.0SE, then before you give up on the Modwright preamp, contact Dan Wright and explain which amp you're using. Provide impedance and sensitivity specs for your Ayre amp. Dan may be able to make custom adjustments to the SWL 9.0SE that will put a smile on your face.