Good used preamp for the M5 amp for under 2k

[ctsooner]

that I can get my money back when I sell.  Thoughts?

[TomicTime]

ARC LS-17 with a magic brick on the transformer and HRS Nimbus couplers under the chassis

[TomicTime]

Pete - Scratch that, the ARC lacks balanced outs…duh…. The Aesthetix Calypso can be had at $2k ish….

This photo is of a SP-17 i got for my brother along side the REF5se battleship…. but still excellent sonics…

[TomicTime]

The Ayre is also super quiet, neutral and well built….

[MNSki]

I’ve owned the base Ayre k-5 Xe (& upgraded xeMP version) and base model Aesthetics Calypso (& now own upgraded signature edition). 

Both are nice in that price range and hold their value well. The Ayre to me was “cleaner”, separation was very good. The Calypso added a sense of texture and filled in spaces between instruments. I kept the Calypso but enjoyed both with my Quatros.

[Stringreen]

I have a K1xemp...with phono.   I don't see if you can do better within this or much more money.  All Ayre stuff works better with balanced cables.....that might be a consideration.

[ctsooner]

I've owned and loved Ayre in the past.  I really like Ryan, Ariel and the guys. Also love Jim White and his crew as they really stepped up when I had an issue (from the seller) with a used Rhea.  Since it's a stop gap, I can't afford to overpay as it may only be 6 months or so.  I'll go search a bit and see what's out there. Thanks all.