Ayre KX-8 Variable Gain Preamplifier

Code: AY-KX8

From £6,500.00
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Item out of Stock | Usually dispatched within 24 hours

The KX-8, inspired by the renowned KX-R preamplifier, incorporates the same true variable gain volume control technology, but with a more straightforward and affordable design. It ensures a consistent signal-to-noise ratio, allowing your music to shine at any volume. Designed with Ayre’s proprietary innovations, the KX-8 features fully-balanced, true zero-feedback circuitry, delivering natural musicality, exceptional dynamics, and remarkable detail.

Available Versions

Base - Variable Gain Preamp - 2 x Balanced Inputs, 3 x Single Ended Inputs; 1 x Balanced or Single Ended Out
with DAC - as Base with the addition of X-8 DAC Core Circuit - 1 x AES, 1 x S/PDIF, 2 x Optical Inputs
Full - as with DAC with the addition of 1 x USB2, 1 x NET2

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 Analog Power Supply
High-Speed Circuit Board Material

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Product Description
Product Specifications
Delivery

The KX-8 Preamplifier offers exceptional customisation options to suit any system, with a range of optional digital inputs, including USB and Network inputs, making it incredibly versatile. It features up to eight digital inputs (Ethernet, USB, AES/EBU, S/PDIF (2), and Toslink (3)) and five analog inputs (2 Balanced, 3 unbalanced), positioning it as the ideal hub for both analog and digital sources. With the Ethernet module installed, it’s Roon-ready and pre-configured to stream from Spotify, Qobuz, and Tidal. The KX-8 will elevate both your source components and power amplifier, becoming a timeless addition to Ayre Acoustics’ legacy.

The KX-8 also offers one of our finest headphone experiences to date. Leveraging true Variable Gain volume control and zero-feedback design across the board, the balanced and unbalanced front panel connectors—driven by Ayre’s exclusive Diamond amplifier circuit—effortlessly power even the most demanding headphones. For the first time, our headphone users can experience the full benefits of Variable Gain technology, allowing music to flow effortlessly into their lives.

Amplifier Specifications:

Input impedance	1 MΩ unbalanced inputs 2 MΩ balanced inputs (1 MΩ per phase)
Input maximum voltage	4 V rms – unbalanced inputs 8 V rms – balanced inputs
Output maximum voltage	4 V RMS – Balanced Outputs 2 V RMS – Single Ended Outputs
Gain	Variable gain to match the required output level of the system without the need for attenuation.
Power consumption	40 watts in operating mode 60 watts in operating mode (volume control active)
Analogue Inputs	2 x Balanced 3 x Single Ended
Weight	5.7kg
Dimensions	440 x 330 x 115mm

We endeavour to despatch same day for orders placed up to 1pm on available stock items (items with stock message "Usually dispatched within 24 hours"). Please remember to check with us first for a physical stock check if next day delivery is important to you. Any items with stock message "Usually dispatched within 72 hours" are items that we do not hold in stock but order in from the importer or manufacturer as soon as a customer order is received. Occasionally these may be delayed beyond 72 hours due to importer/manufacturer stock levels but we will inform you as soon as we can if this is the case.

UK Orders

We despatch the bulk of our UK mainland items on a 24 hour service – Free of Charge. Non Mainland locations - Isle of Man, Isle of Wight, the Scilly Isles, the Scottish highlands and Islands, the Channel Islands and Northern Ireland may take a day or so longer and are not Free of Charge. Smaller items are delivered using Royal Mail 24 or special delivery. Larger items are delivered using a courier service such as DPD or UPS.

International Orders

Due to the nature of our products and brand restrictions we are only able to send certain items internationally. Smaller items are delivered using Royal Mail Small Packets Airmail with International Tracked and/or Signed depending on value of item and availability of the service. Larger International shipments are sent by insured and tracked services using UPS. If there are any delays due to specific customs regulations, etc, you will be contacted by Hifisound or by the courier with a request for any further information required. Customs duties can apply for shipments to any countries outside of the UK depending on where the product you have bought is made. Customers are responsible for all taxes and duties incurred when the items enter their country.

Collect in Store or Home Install

At the request of the manufacturer some items cannot be supplied by mail order but you can click and buy them and then elect to collect them from our store or arrange a home install (if applicable). Applicable items clearly state that they are Collect in store or home install. Once ordered you will receive a message prompting you to contact us by phone or email to arrange for us to deliver and install or to reserve and collect from our store at your convenience, you will also be advised of the delivery time / stock availability as not all Home install / collect in store items are held in stock.