Ayre K-1xe vs Audio Research Ref 3


I currently have a Audio Research Ref 3 and am wondering if anyone has directly compared the Ref 3 to the Ayre K-1xe. What were the strengths and weaknesses of each? Which was better? I have read the other posts on audiogon and am looking for some additional comments.
kmiller5

Showing 1 response by rapogee

Had them both and loved the gain in the Ref 3. I still prefered the overall performance of the Ayre K1xe, just a wonderful sounding preamp, its now the heart of my system.
Even single ended will sound fine but the balance mode was just perfect for me. It was smoother sounding than many other tube preamps I have tried and had including the BAT, Calypso to name a few. Works well with many other electronic pieces with different sonic characters producing very vivid sound so its good to experiment first. Stunning performance with Krell and Wilson combo that I have.