2. amps-preamps
  3. 154306-1604

Preamps with Dual XLR Outputs

I am looking for preamps with dual XLR outputs to drive 2 separate stereo amps which are connected to 2 different speakers sets. My understanding is the Mola Mola Makua w/DAC and streaming board that is ROON READY can do this. It costs $20K and is my leading contender for my next preamp + DAC + streamer. I am going to output the signal to a Benchmark AHB2 amp + KEF LS50 speakers for one path. The other path is Luxman m900u amp + Yamaha NS 5000 speakers. My understanding is that turning off one of the amps stops the preamp from using that signal path. Perfect. I have heard all the components except the Mola Mola Makua so I will likely do a home trial on that.

My question is what other brands have an analog preamp with dual XLR outputs to do what I describe above? The preamp does not need to support an internal DAC. I could go for an external DAC like a LUMIN X1 or Denafrips Terminator.

BTW - if the Mola Mola Makua or any other brand cannot support my use case (I have been told it can). I will buy 1 preamp, such as the Benchmark LA4 to go to the AHB2 + LS50 system and also buy a DAC, such as Lumin X1,  to go direct to the Luxman + Yamaha system. Both speakers will be in the same room.
yyzsantabarbara

Showing 5 responses by gdnrbob

gdnrbob
4,409 posts
 
Ayre KX-R
Bob
gdnrbob
4,409 posts
 
@yyzsantabarbara ,
I was just conversing via email with another Ayre KX-R owner. He and Mr. V. agreed that the Twenty update brought the KX-R to significantly higher level.
FWIW,
I own both the KX-R (non Twenty) and an Atma MP-1 3.3. I used to own the MP-3 3.3, but the KX-R was a definite upgrade, so I had to have Ralph build me an MP-1. Thanks Ralph!😊
I have only had the MP-1 for a month, so things are still burning in, but I think Ralph's work will be the winner.
So, when Ayre has one of their upgrade 'sales', the KX-R will be going in for a tune up- finances permitting.
I really don't need 2 preamps (nor Amps, I also have a set of MX-R's), but after 35 years, I just had to scratch the SS vs. Tubes itch.
To my mind, you wouldn't be unhappy with either the Ayre or Atmasphere preamps, both provide super clean sound. I would have to have my head in a vice for hours to find a negative thing to say about either.
HTH
Bob
gdnrbob
4,409 posts
 
I would have suggested Ralph’s preamps, but it seemed like you wanted only SS.
To save you some research Ayre KX-R supports the AES 48 standard. If you can find a non-Twenty version, it would be a less expensive route- while still giving you the option of upgrading when finances allow.
That is what I did.
Bob
gdnrbob
4,409 posts
 
@yyzsantabarbara ,
I can assure you Ralph and his staff will give you great advice.
Like I said, I owned both the MP-3 and now the MP-1.
Had I not moved to an Ayre KX-R, I wouldn't have known/cared about the difference between the two Atma preamps.
So, if your budget limits you, I would consider an MP-3 in a heartbeat.
-And, you can always upgrade when finances allow- like I did.
Bob
gdnrbob
4,409 posts
 
@smodtactical,
Yes, the MP-1 comes very close to the KX-R, with the latter having a bit more definition in the bass.
I just switched from the KX-R to the MP-1 and, to be honest, noticed a bit more 'atmosphere'. Mind you the KX-R is not the Twenty upgrade, and the Atma is basically stock.
If finances allow, I will upgrade the KX-R to Twenty status and upgrade the MP-1 with Caddock resistors ( and anything else Ralph can come up with).
Bob
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