preamp for berning/merlin/audio aero system

you no need a preamplifier with the zh-270.

Thank you all for taking the time to offer such helpful comments. Dgarretson, I have heard the Atma sounds excellent with the Merlins. Diamonddude, I neglected to mention that I have a (generally well behaved) 5 year old so I am looking to avoid exposed tubes (I think the Sira lacks a cage?). Sbank, I have heard from Bobby too that he loves the sound of the Joules with his speakers. Jwpstayman, I heard from someone else today that the VAC Ren Mk II (?) makes an excellent choice with the Merlins and the Berning. Oneprof, the budget is generally in the range of the preamps I mentioned - I hear the wisdom of waiting for the Berning preamp but have found that patience is a virtue in short supply when the upgrade bug bites. I had not considered the Tron - you have given me a research assignment. Jopi88, your advice is sound (no pun intended) but where is the fun in that? Thank you all again - you have remminded me why Audiogon is my favorite site. - Kevin

Kevin,
In my experience, the Berning sounds lousy without a preamp. It does plenty great, but it isn't Superman. I don't know a single user who has tried any of the preamps mentioned above and concluded to run the Berning direct.
Also, unless plans have changed, I heard from David and Allen that their coming preamp is a SOTA design and will be priced somewhere > $10000. So it might not be in your range. Cheers,
Spencer

Sbank, I purchased a First Sound Deluxe 2.0 Mk II, which is being inspected by Emmanuel Go and upgraded. I should have it in about a week. I have been using the Berning straight out of a cd player (Anthem cd 1 while my AA Capitole is being upgraded to SE). The sound is not great right now. I am gratified to read your comments because I was expecting something much better. Don't get me wrong, the Berning really drives the Merlins (good bass,nice detail), but the sound lacks refinement. I am very much looking forward to receiving the preamp. I will post a follow-up after the preamp is in place and I can do some before and after comparisons. Regards, Kevin

Kevin,
The FS has a great reputation. I've heard them at shows, but never at home. From what I've read here, should be a fine match. Looking forward to reading your reaction after you get some time with it...Cheers,
Spencer