Ayre Acoustics K-5xeMP Preamplifier

“The Ayre K-5x is a killer preamp…” – Shane Buettner, The Audio Perfectionist

“I was impressed by Ayre Acoustics’ K-5xeMP. For what is these days a relatively affordable price, it offers much of the sound quality you can get from the megabucks solid-state preamps. While the original K-5xe was a solid Class B recommendation in Stereophile’s “Recommended Components,” this Maximum Performance version deserves a full Class A rating.” – John Atkinson (Stereophile), 2011

Ayre’s K-5xeMP preamplifier combines peerless musical performance with stunning visual design. The exclusive fully-balanced,  zero-feedback circuitry renders music with vitality and life. Its custom-designed volume control is actuated by a silky smooth optical encoder, using FET switches and precision metal-film resistors to deliver absolute sonic transparency. The massive power transformer effortlessly provides startlingly real musical dynamics. The K-5xeMP will transport you to a new world of musical enjoyment.

Features

• zero-feedback, fully-balanced discrete circuitry
• 66 step volume control, each of 1.0 dB
• Four inputs: two balanced, two single-ended
• Proprietary volume control with FET switches & metal film resistors
• Ayre Conditioner Power-Line RFI Filter
• Control microprocessor is turned off except when executing a command
• Input selector also switches ground connection, so that all source components are completely disconnected except for the one selected
• “Theater” mode for use with surround-sound processor is assignable to any input, allowing use with balanced or single-ended processors

Specification