To get the very best out of Audio Research gear you will need to match components with other AR gear. Consider that before you decide.
Pre amp suggestion Ayre or Audio Research
For those of you who have experience with Ayre and Audio Research what would be your choice.
My current system:
Ayre VX8 Power Amp, Mcintosh C49 Preamp, Vandersteen Treo CT speakers, Node Icon Streamer, Kimber 4TC speaker cable.
Looking at the used market three preamps I am interested in are pretty close in price. Ayre KX-8, Audio Research Ref 5 SE and Audio Research LS28SE.
It is highly unlikely for me to compare the three so that isn't an option.
Any thoughts would be appreciated.
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- 17 posts total
@aewarren +1 And I've owned both Ayre and Audio Research, preamps and amps. ARC will take you higher but how do you feel about tube replacement costs? Ayre gear is super reliable and they are a great company. You can't go wrong with either. |
Do you want the features of the Ayre KX 8, like built in DAC and network module? If not, maybe look for a used KX5 twenty. I have listened to the EX 8 with my speakers and it had the Ayre sound so I assume the KX 8 would as well. It is the sound I like, detailed, fast and dynamic and a black background. My experience listening to Vandersteen below the Kento is that they are very neutral so the Ayre may be a good fit. I also think that Ayre preamps work well with Ayre amps. But if you like the Audio Research sound, the Ayre will not sound like that. For reference I use the KX 5 twenty with MXR monoblocks and Wilson the Watt Puppy. |
- 17 posts total