Of course it matters which Cary preamp ... the more you spend, the better you get. The only two Cary preamps I am aware of that have HT bypass built in are the SLP-03 and SLP-05. Unfortunately neither of these can be ordered with a built-in phono stage. The SLP-98 can be ordered with a built-in phono stage.
Not sure if older Cary preamps can be upgraded by Cary to implement HT bypass, but it is such a simple matter that you could do it yourself if you are handy with a soldering iron. Choose one of the inputs as your HT bypass. Look at the switch and find the wire that goes to the volume control, and the one that comes back. Cut both the wires, and join them. Presto - instant HT bypass. Of course this voids your warranty.
Regards,
Keith
Not sure if older Cary preamps can be upgraded by Cary to implement HT bypass, but it is such a simple matter that you could do it yourself if you are handy with a soldering iron. Choose one of the inputs as your HT bypass. Look at the switch and find the wire that goes to the volume control, and the one that comes back. Cut both the wires, and join them. Presto - instant HT bypass. Of course this voids your warranty.
Regards,
Keith