Ayre k5xe^mp

[Box860]

Thanks, David.

The K-5xeMP replaced an Arcam A80 integrated that I was using as a preamp. I purchased the Arcam back in 2005 and used it as an integrated until this January, when I purchased the V-5xe. At the time I was also considering a Bryston 4B SST2, but a used V-5xe in near mint condition came my way at a good price, and the owner of the hifi shop I frequent, who sells both Ayre and Bryston, recommended the V-5xe over the 4B SST2. I didn't audition another preamp. Once I had the V-5xe, the K-5xeMP was the next logical purchase. Many of the reviews I read of these components suggested there was a special synergy between them and that each sounded best when paired together. I think that might have to do with the fact that Ayre takes a particular approach to component design that not all other high end manufacturers do. Charles Hanson insists on zero feedback and balanced circuits. At any rate, adding the power amp certainly improved my system, but I think the addition of the preamp made an even bigger difference. Everything sounds much more natural -- less "hifi."

I've decided to stay with Ayre for all amplification. My next purchase will be the P-5xe phono stage.

[Ritmo]

Congratulations Box860!

Welcome to AA!

[Masterlu]

thisuldo... Welcome!

[Masterlu]

Box860... Welcome!

[warrior-kid]

First post here, a fascinating forum.

Also added a K-5xemp to my V-5xe very recently--fed from Oppo 95 via XLR and Onkyo AV via Silnote Morpeus RCA. V-5xe feeds Monitor Audio Platinum PL300.

The difference with the no-preamp case is very very big. Vocals, Beethoven, Prog rock--quite amazing. Jean Michel Jarre in hi-res created a soundstage that went to my right and left directly--from just two speakers upfront.

I have a problem and will need your help. With Onkyo OFF and pre and amp ON, there is significant hum from the speakers if the pre is on Processor Passthru and unmuted. Switching ON Onkyo, changing the pre input and any other combinations remove the hum. I have tried putting the whole lot on one mains, disconnecting any other devices including satellite--nothing works, the hum is there provided the Onkyo is OFF.

Would really appreciate your help here
Thanks

[chessman]

Warrior-kid, welcome aboard!


Sorry, no help on the noise issue.

[Cheezewhiz]

Originally Posted by warrior-kid

First post here, a fascinating forum.

Also added a K-5xemp to my V-5xe very recently--fed from Oppo 95 via XLR and Onkyo AV via Silnote Morpeus RCA. V-5xe feeds Monitor Audio Platinum PL300.

The difference with the no-preamp case is very very big. Vocals, Beethoven, Prog rock--quite amazing. Jean Michel Jarre in hi-res created a soundstage that went to my right and left directly--from just two speakers upfront.

I have a problem and will need your help. With Onkyo OFF and pre and amp ON, there is significant hum from the speakers if the pre is on Processor Passthru and unmuted. Switching ON Onkyo, changing the pre input and any other combinations remove the hum. I have tried putting the whole lot on one mains, disconnecting any other devices including satellite--nothing works, the hum is there provided the Onkyo is OFF.

Would really appreciate your help here
Thanks

Welcome WKid,

I would love to hear your combo, been a big fan of Monitor Audio since I bought my G60 more than 10 years ago. And have heard nothing but great things about Arye.

Regarding your problem ... maybe a grounding issue? Is your Onkyo on the same circuit as your other components?

[Masterlu]

warrior-kid... Welcome!

[warrior-kid]

Originally Posted by Cheezewhiz

Welcome WKid,

I would love to hear your combo, been a big fan of Monitor Audio since I bought my G60 more than 10 years ago. And have heard nothing but great things about Arye.

Regarding your problem ... maybe a grounding issue? Is your Onkyo on the same circuit as your other components?

I am in the UK so it may be a bit far but you are welcome to stop for a listen if you're around.

Onkyo is either on the same or a different circuit but the hum is there regardless. Not sure why it is--thankfully--only there if the receiver is OFF. It is a nuisance though as I keep forgetting about it and switching off the receiver before hitting Mute on the pre.

@Everyone Thanks for the welcome.

[jima4a]

I am considering adding the K-5xeMP to my system but the hum issue has me a bit wary. My prepro is the Integra DHC 80.3. Also, I have a Bryston 4Bsst2 for my left and right which is not a balanced amp but has a good balanced input stage. Speakers are Kef Reference 205/2 but my source initially will only be the Oppo 103. I want to see if the 105 gets replaced this fall before deciding on a DAC. My other option is either the Krell Foundation or Bryston SP3 and forgo a DAC.

Thoughts?