Amplifier Input Expander

[sg60]

I have an Ayre Ax7E amplifier that I'm very happy with but have used up all of the available inputs and would really like to figure out a way to add at least one more (preferably a balanced input which is the recommended choice on Ayre amps). I've searched the web looking for solutions and although there are devices like this out there I've never come across one made by a manufacturer that I feel I can trust. I'm obviously concerned about degrading the signal if the device is not of the highest quality. Can anyone recommend an audiophile quality device that would solve this problem or suggest any other solutions? Thanks.

[Allan F]

I have an Ayre Ax7E amplifier that I'm very happy with but have used up all of the available inputs and would really like to figure out a way to add at least one more (preferably a balanced input which is the recommended choice on Ayre amps). I've searched the web looking for solutions and although there are devices like this out there I've never come across one made by a manufacturer that I feel I can trust. I'm obviously concerned about degrading the signal if the device is not of the highest quality. Can anyone recommend an audiophile quality device that would solve this problem or suggest any other solutions? Thanks.

 

QED, an English company, used to make input expanders but they have apparently discontinued them. You might be able to find a used one. They accept RCA connectors only.

[sg60]

Do you know if their products had good reputations?

[Allan F]

Yes, they do. I had a simple two way switch many years ago because I was short on preamp inputs and the QED device worked without any problems. To minimize the possibility of signal quality degradation, I would suggest that you assign the least critical components, from an audio point of view, to the switch, e.g. TV sound, am/fm tuner sound, as opposed to higher end audio components.

 

If you want to get some idea about the company's reputation, you might want to do a search on "QED Audio reviews". It will bring up reviews of their products, primarily cables.

[pooger]

You really want a well made, passive switch box. I'm not sure who makes these for home audio; I've used Radial Engineering AB boxes before for sound reinforcement purposes, and they are very well made, using high quality parts. I'm not sure if they make more than an AB (2 in to 1 out) balanced expander though. I also don't know if they are truly audiophile. But you could get one and try it in your system at home to see.

[Audio_ELF]

Not sure of the quality, but Project (the turntable people) had a 4way switch as part of their "Box" range. Around £100 iirc.

Sorry don't think that would be at all suitable...

 

Eloise

[Allan F]

This UK retailer still lists the QED IX 20 on their website. You might want to contact them to see if they have one in stock and will ship to Canada. https://www.stoneaudio.co.uk/?product=qed+ix20

[sg60]

Thanks, I'll do that.

[sg60]

Thanks to everyone for your suggestions.

[AudioDoctor]

you could try a Manley Skipjack... which they no longer produce... Sorry.

[wkhanna]

No intent to clutter up the thread, my knowledge of such things is minimal....

 

..but could you use a passive pre-amp like one of these?

 

LINK

[sg60]

I came across Goldpoint in my searching and it sounds like it's possible.

[DZetye]

Mapletree Audio in Canada will make a line router for you in whatever inputs and outputs you want

[sg60]

I'll check them out.