2. amps-preamps
  3. 1254429799

Preamp w/ xlrs in the ht-bypass loop

Hello, I'm looking for a two channel preamplifier with a pair of balanced inputs that are included in the home theater bypass loop. I've done a little bit of research and there isn't that many that do this or they're a little over my budget. Mark Levinson has a few but I'd be looking at about $4000 used which is a little more than I was looking to spend and I'd rather buy new anyway. The one that would fit the bill perfectly is the Ayre K-5xe. However, I read the manual and I would need to pull the plug every time to engage the bypass. And the way my rack is set up, that's apples to apples as it would be the same, if I went back there to switch the cables myself. Anyway, if some of you guys could lists some models to check out, I'd appreciate it. The features that I need are simple, with the first three being mandatory, and I'll list them below.

1) Two balanced inputs included in the ht bypass loop- as mentioned above.

2) Has to be fully balanced- I'm not looking to sacrifice anything for the convenience of home theater bypass.

3) Has to be SS- I'm not running tube gear and I do not want to mix and match. I realize this limits the field.

4) I'd like to spend $3000, hopefully less- I'd like to buy new but I'm open to used

5) Less is more- I'm only running a CD player and the amplifiers for my fronts. So that's one pair of balanced outputs and two pairs of balanced inputs. I'll take another set of balanced inputs for a computer DAC, down the road, but it's not a priority. Staying with "less is more," I'd really prefer it to be completely analog. I'm trying to avoid anything that may introduce noise; even those big florescent displays are a concern.

6) Remote- a remote would be nice but not a must

I'm willing to audition anything that includes the first three features on this list; the rest is a bonus. I appreciate the help.
bostongeorge34
jylee
306 posts
 
Preamp with proper HT bypass is pretty rare. Many of them that claims processor loop or tape loop are not suitable to the topology where you want to use the same set of power amps and speakers for both 2ch preamp and processor. Parasound P7 supports true HT bypass, but it has only one pair of balanced input. If you recognize the balanced connection is mainly to provide common node noise rejection, maybe one pair of balanced input is sufficient. I'm not sure if there is a preamp that matches all the criteria you have listed. Maybe there is. Good luck with your search.
cajunpepe
255 posts
 
McIntosh c2300---@$4k used
bostongeorge34 OP
7 posts
 
Thanks for the response, Jylee. Yes, originally I did believe that HT bypass was just about unity gain. I guess, depending on the design, the signal may still be processed and include the preamp's signature sound. Whether or not that's a bad thing; I do not know. I am aware that some do have a true bypass circuit and the preamp can actually be turned off. I know Cary has tube preamps that do this and I wonder if their CPA1 does as well. I admit that maybe I should more concerned with that instead of running fully balanced to the SSP.

I also admit that I probably have a phobia about introducing noise. I have all my analog, digital, and video gear all in one room, between two racks, with wires galore. It's less than ideal. When I eventually build my new home, I can have a dedicated music room. But, you know, until then...

It's funny that you mention the Parasound P7. I've been waiting on the Halo C3 to come out, which replaces the C2. I thought that I'd try an all-in-one solution, with the option of adding the preamp, down the road. It keeps getting delayed though and I even have my doubts for 2010 CES. So I can't depend on that option either.
More to discover