General Asylum: REVIEW: PS Audio 5.5 Preamplifier (SS) by Nalu

Model:	5.5
Category:	Preamplifier (SS)
Suggested Retail Price:	$unkown
Description:	Solid State Preamplifier
Manufacturer URL:	PS Audio
Manufacturer URL:	PS Audio

Review by Nalu ( A ) on February 07, 2002 at 18:34:08
IP Address: 198.26.130.36

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for the 5.5

I've owned this preamp since 1987 (I think) and it has served admirably to link my front end to the business end of my sytem through many changes. I upgraded my 5.0 to 5.5 status, which improved control layout and soundstaging over the 5.0. I also use the M-500 power supply (which would run a decent sized amp!), which should be considered essential. This has been a very reliable, fine sounding, solid state amp which was only bettered in my system (ML Sequel 2's, Bryston 3B, Denon 1500 and Straightwire at the time) by running the CD player directly into the amp. Even that config was only marginally more transparent than the 'straightwire' option the preamp gives you. Don't underestimate the value of the striaghtwire section. In the average system (reasonable cable runs) and a stout source output section (tuner/digital only obviously), the straightwire mode is hard to beat at ANY price. The phono section has superb loading options and is more than adequate for modest analog front ends. I still use the phono section for my Star/ET2/Aurum front end. You've got to get into the $2000 range to find a better new preamp with phono - if you can find one at all. Slight clicks/static on switch operation, no remote and so-so looks (I like 'em, some don't) are relative bummers in this otherwise excellent performer (better than its raved-about little brother the 4.5). Considering you can find this pre used for under $500, it is a bargain, and the fact that PSAudio is still alive and kicking (ass) is icing on the cake! SCORE SUMMARY: I'd give it 4.5 for sound quality (5 for straightwire mode, 4 for the line stage); 4.5 for value (5 for used value); 3.5 for cosmetics (like-it-or-hate-it-sleek-and-black); 4 for feature set (great, flexible phono, mono output option, no remote, "old fashioned" preamp - no processing); 4 for build (doesn't reach that Krell feel, more like a budget ARC). Recommended!

Product Weakness: No remote, styling may not appeal to all. HTF M-500 supply upgrade is essential.
Product Strengths: Straightwire mode, wonderful phono section, great switching options (mono output, plenty of source switching, two tape loops and more)

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Bryston 3B, N.E.W. A20.1 monoblocs
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	PS Audio 5.5
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Modded Magnavox CDB-650, Denon 1500, AR ES-1/Grado TLZ and Dynavector D17MR
Speakers:	GNP 220's, ML Sequel II's
Cables/Interconnects:	Straightwire, Tara, MIT
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Classical/Jazz/Reggae
Time Period/Length of Audition:	10+ years
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner
Your System (if other than home audition):	The listing above constitutes the "average" system this preamp was used in over a ten year period. Many components came and went and my current system is very different.

Product Weakness:	No remote, styling may not appeal to all. HTF M-500 supply upgrade is essential.
Product Strengths:	Straightwire mode, wonderful phono section, great switching options (mono output, plenty of source switching, two tape loops and more)