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Preamp - Ayre vs. Audio Research

If anyone has heard both the Audio Research Reference 6 and the Ayre KX-R Twenty preamp, please describe the differences in their sound.

I recently settled on a D'Agostino Momentum S-250 amplifier. I compared it to a pair of Ayre MX-R Twenties, and my report can be found on a thread called D'Agostino vs Ayre. 

Unfortunately, the Momentum preamp does not offer a line out option, and I want that for headphone amp operation. So, I am considering the AR or Ayre preamp options. Thoughts?
imgoodwithtools
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,744 posts
 
i compared a Ref5se to the Ayre which at that time was pre twenty config.
the Ayre was drop dead quiet, accurate and had fantastic low bass.
the ARC bettered it IMO in air, image depth and midrange sweetness.
it was very close.
Ayre got my business with the power amp.
my dealer has both so i would push him to borrow both .... but i would also give tge Brinkman which he carries a shot and maybe the Aesthetix
a great dealer with real depth is a wonderful thing !!!!

jafant
18,796 posts
 
Whom is your dealer/retailer- tomic601 ?
imgoodwithtools OP
236 posts
 
I spoke with a big, Eastern dealer this week who carries Audio Research, Ayre, and D'Agostino. They think the Dag is the best match with a Momentum amp. Obviously, that won't work for me. They also thought the AR might offer some positive virtues, even over the Ayre. But couldn't really describe, over the phone, what they might be. Still looking for answers.
keithr
1,304 posts
 
My dealer has had success with the Ref 6 and Dags - loves the combo.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,368 posts
 
The only answer is that you have to listen for yourself to hear if that particular sound works for you.  Ayre and AR are my two favorites.  I chose Ayre (all my electronics are Ayre), but that's me....  I like the Guarneri over the Strad.....would be happy with either.
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