Audio Resurgence Kraken AR7A
Preamplifier
€ 1699
Audio Resurgence Kraken AR7A – preamplifier
The Audio Resurgence Kraken AR7A is a fully discrete preamplifier, hand-built in the UK by Andy Light and Glen Gayle — the original minds behind Alchemist Products. Paired with the Kraken AR8A power amplifier, it completes a separates system that picks up precisely where Alchemist left off. Those who prefer a single chassis will find the Kraken AR6A integrated amplifier an equally compelling option from Audio Resurgence.
The Same Hands, the Same Convictions
Glen Gayle's circuit philosophy has not changed: keep the signal path short, keep it honest, and let the music lead. The AR7A's concentric input selector minimises track length from input to output. The external linear power supply — included as standard — keeps transformer noise well away from the signal. What remains is a noise floor low enough to reveal everything your source has to offer.
Built to Last, Built to Match
The AR7A shares its chassis dimensions with the AR6A and AR8A — same aluminium enclosure, same heatsink profile, same uncompromising finish. It is hand-assembled in Hertfordshire with individually selected components. There are no shortcuts here, and no features added for the sake of a brochure.
Key Specifications
- Type: preamplifier
- Input sensitivity: 400 mV for full output (3.5 V)
- Frequency response: flat 20 Hz – 55 kHz (−3 dB at 105 kHz)
- Distortion at 1 kHz / 1 V: <0.1% THD
- Distortion at 20 kHz / 1 V: <0.3% THD
- Residual noise: <1 mV
- Power supply: external linear PSU (included)
- Peak consumption: 15 W
- Chassis dimensions: 302 × 300 × 89 mm
- Chassis weight: 3.9 kg (without PSU)
- Origin: United Kingdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose the AR7A over the AR6A integrated amplifier?
Separates give you the freedom to upgrade each component on its own terms. The AR7A and AR8A also allow greater isolation between gain stages, which typically translates to a quieter background and more precise control over dynamics.
Does the AR7A work with amplifiers other than the AR8A?
Yes — any power amplifier with a line-level RCA input will work. That said, the AR7A and AR8A were voiced together, and the synergy between them is audible.
Is this related to the original Alchemist Kraken?
Directly. Andy Light and Glen Gayle designed the original, and they designed this one too. The AR7A is not a tribute — it is a continuation.
Hear It for Yourself
The Audio Resurgence Kraken AR7A preamplifier is available for a personal listening session at Novus Audio in the Netherlands. We welcome visitors by appointment — come and hear what it does for your system.
