Wyred 4 Sound or PS Audio


Hello, My name is Mark and I am a hifiaholic. It has been 5.5 hours since my last purchase: W4S mAmp mono blocks with the wiring/post upgrades - these will replace a Pro-Ject Amp Box RS, my gateway drug and a well-loved member of the family; I'm still a bit unsettled about the separation.

I am also experiencing cravings to replace the preamp, also a Pro-Ject (Pre Box RS Dig) with something with HT bypass to once again make use of the extra speakers and (really good)HT receiver on hand. My dilemma is this: I have the good fortune of two great deals: a new PS Audio BHK Signature Preamp at 50% off retail, or a new W4S STP-SE Stage 2 modified Preamp for $1k less than the PS Audio. I know, such a sad story.

I have recently lucked into used PS Audio PWD MkII and PWT, and have a PS Audio NuWave Phono Converter. Seems like I'm chasing the PS Audio dragon, and my pupils do dilate when I see the BHK, but I have read such amazing things about the W4S STP - and this passive/active preamp idea is super intriguing - that it is making the decision a tough one. Would the amps have better synergy with a pre of their own kind, or would the tubes in the PS balance perfectly with the D-Class W4S? Is the PS deal just too damn good to pass up and everything else be damned, or is the W4S really the sleeper deal of century? Does anyone have any firsthand knowledge or wisdom to impart. Shouldn't there be coffee and cookies around here...


markkelly70

Showing 1 response by minkwelder

I have the W4S STP SE, and was immediately struck with how transparent it sounds. I originally paired it with a Musical Design D-140 and Maggie MG-12's. I now have it paired with a Son of Ampzilla II and Maggie 1.7i's. The combination is the best system I've ever had.

The STP is a VERY nice preamp that reminds me of the best qualities of a tube pre with great bass handling. It may lack slightly in high end extension, but that could be the Audioquest Type 4 speaker cables.

I have no problems with enough gain, and it's nice to finally have a remote volume control that is actually usable for a change!