I had a totally balanced system with GamuT CD1R, Pass X2.5 preamp, and GamuT Mk. 3 amp. This was an excellent combo. I then ventured into a tube preamp which is single ended (deHavilland Mercury class A, no negative feedback, triode design). I use the wonderful Cardas XLR RCA adapters. The sound is wonderful in every respect. See my brief review on the "other" forum on 11/03/04. The Mercury comes with a remote option. Needless to say I do not missed my balanced system at all. The less expensive deHavilland Ultraverve was Enjoy The Music.com preamp of the year. I would be very surprised if the top of the line CAT, VTL or BAT improves upon the Mercury. which is 3995 retail with remote. I highly recommend you include this gem with your other auditions. You can talk to Kara the designer whom I imagine would arrange for an audition.
Preamp Recommendations Lamm, Ayre K-1x, BAT 31SE
Curent System:
Ayre V-5x amp
Levinson 390S CDP directly driving the Ayre
Dynaudio Contour 3.0 Speakers
Au24 speaker cables, Audience Power Cord, PS Audio P300 for CDP, Cardas Golden Cross XLR IC
As much as I like the transparency of the CDP directly driving the amp, the system is begging for a high quality preamp. I've never owned tube gear, but am interesting in trying a good one. I like what I have read about the Lamm LL2, the Ayre-1x, and the BAT 31SE. Of course there are so many other offerings from Hovland, Sonic Fronteirs, ARC, C-J, CAT, and so on.....
I listen to a lot of vocals (Joni Mitchell, Nora Jones, Lucinda Williams, Ella Fitzgerald) and simple jazz arrangements, and occasionaly rock (Radiohead, Jeff Buckley, dave mathews).
As lazy as it sounds, I also want/need a remote (which eliminates many). Also, for some perhaps stupid reason, I want it to handle XLR in/out since that's what I currently have.
Your thoughts and expereinces (especially Ayre or other good SS amp owners) GREATLY appreciated.
Ayre V-5x amp
Levinson 390S CDP directly driving the Ayre
Dynaudio Contour 3.0 Speakers
Au24 speaker cables, Audience Power Cord, PS Audio P300 for CDP, Cardas Golden Cross XLR IC
As much as I like the transparency of the CDP directly driving the amp, the system is begging for a high quality preamp. I've never owned tube gear, but am interesting in trying a good one. I like what I have read about the Lamm LL2, the Ayre-1x, and the BAT 31SE. Of course there are so many other offerings from Hovland, Sonic Fronteirs, ARC, C-J, CAT, and so on.....
I listen to a lot of vocals (Joni Mitchell, Nora Jones, Lucinda Williams, Ella Fitzgerald) and simple jazz arrangements, and occasionaly rock (Radiohead, Jeff Buckley, dave mathews).
As lazy as it sounds, I also want/need a remote (which eliminates many). Also, for some perhaps stupid reason, I want it to handle XLR in/out since that's what I currently have.
Your thoughts and expereinces (especially Ayre or other good SS amp owners) GREATLY appreciated.