KX-8
First appearing in our world famous KX-R preamplifier, the KX-8 features the same recipe for true variable gain volume control; although in a much simpler and cost effective approach. Maintain a constant signal to noise ratio and set the music free, at any volume level. Built around Ayre’s exclusive innovations, the Ayre KX-8 includes fully-balanced, true zero-feedback circuitry throughout for natural musicality, unprecedented dynamics and detail.
The KX-8 Preamplifier allows users to customize to their needs, by allowing a set of optional standard digital inputs, and optional USB or Network inputs, making it amazingly versatile. Featuring up to eight digital inputs (Ethernet, USB, AES/EBU, S/PDIF (2), and Toslink (3)) and five analogue inputs (2 Balanced, 3 unbalanced) it’s prepared to be the analogue and digital hub for most any systems. With the Ethernet module installed, it is Roon-ready and pre-configured to stream Spotify, Qobuz, and Tidal. The KX-8 will unlock the potential of your source components, and your power amplifier; becoming another timeless classic in the Ayre Acoustics heritage.
The KX-8 stands to be one of our greatest headphone experiences to date. Taking full advantage of the true Variable Gain volume control and true zero feedback design throughout, both balanced and unbalanced front panel connectors–driven by Ayre’s exclusive Diamond amplifier circuit will effortlessly drive the most demanding headphones, allowing music to flow effortlessly into your life. A first for our headphone users to be able to experience the the benefits of Variable Gain technology.
Key Features
- Ayre’s Exclusive Continuously Variable Gain Transimpedance (CVGT) volume control
- Zero-Feedback, Fully-Balanced Discrete Circuitry
- Ayre’s Double Diamond Output Stage
- Ayre’s Exclusive Equilock Gain Stage
- Linear Analogue Power Supply
- High-Speed Circuit Board Material
- Analogue Inputs:
- (2) Balanced
- (3) Single Ended
- Optional DAC:
- ESS ES9038Q2M DAC chip
- Xilinx Spartan FPGA
- Ayre’s Asynchronous S/PDIF input
- Ayre custom digital clock
- Ayre’s Minimum Phase digital filter
- Single-pass 16x oversampling
- Up to six digital inputs:
- Ethernet
- Asynchronous USB
- AES/EBU
- S/PDIF
- Optical (2)
- AyreLink Communication Trigger System
| Specifications | |
| Maximum Input Level | Unbalanced Inputs: 4 V RMS, Balanced Inputs: 8 V RMS |
| Output Level | Balanced Outputs: 4 V RMS, Single Ended Outputs: 2 V RMS |
| Gain | Gain variable to match the required output level of the system without the need for attenuation |
| Input Impedance | Unbalanced Inputs: 1 MΩ, Balanced Inputs: 2 MΩ (1 MΩ per Phase) |
| XLR Input Polarity | Pin 1 = Ground, Pin 2 = Non-Inverting (Positive), Pin 3 = Inverting (Negative) |
| Frequency Response | DC – 250 kHz |
| Power Consumption | 40 Watts in Operating Mode, 60 Watts in Operating Mode (Volume Control Active) |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 44 x 33 x 11.5 cm (17.25" W x 13.0" D x 4.5") |
| Weight | 5.7 kg (12.5 lb) |
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