Cyrus 80 PRE Streaming Preamplifier

The Cyrus 80 PRE is a full-width streaming preamplifier built for listeners who want separates-level control without giving up the convenience of built-in streaming. It pairs the same BluOS platform and ESS Sabre DAC found in the 80 AMP with a dedicated preamplifier circuit, balanced headphone output, and every digital and analog input you'd need. Partner it with the 80 PWR power amplifier for a two-box system that outperforms any single chassis.

Key Features of the Cyrus 80 PRE

• BluOS Streaming Platform: Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, Amazon Music, internet radio, and NAS libraries built in
• ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M 32-bit DAC: HyperStream IV architecture with lossless support up to 24-bit/192kHz
• 5-inch Full-Color TFT Display: Album art, source selection, and system status
• Built-in WiFi Antenna: Wireless streaming without running cable to your rack
• MM/MC Phono Input: Moving magnet and moving coil cartridge support
• 4 Analog Inputs: RCA connections for external sources
• 2 Optical + 2 Coaxial Digital Inputs: Connect disc players, streamers, and digital transports
• Asynchronous USB-B Input: Bit-perfect connection from a computer
• HDMI eARC Input: Route TV audio through your separates system
• Balanced XLR Inputs and Outputs: Low-noise signal path to the power amplifier
• Balanced Headphone Output: Dedicated balanced headphone amplifier for serious headphone use
• Standard Headphone Output: Single-ended headphone output for universal compatibility
• Roon Ready, AirPlay 2, MQA: Full ecosystem compatibility out of the box
• BluOS App Control: iOS, Android, Kindle, Mac, and PC
• Full-Width Aluminum Chassis: Cyrus's first full-size design, made in the UK
• 5-Year Warranty: Backed by British engineering

ESS Sabre DAC and Digital Platform

The 80 PRE uses the same custom ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M implementation found in the 80 AMP. The HyperStream IV dual-DAC topology was tuned by the Cyrus engineering team for minimum jitter and maximum dynamic range across all inputs. Digital connections cover every format you'd encounter: two optical, two coaxial, asynchronous USB-B for computer audio, and HDMI eARC for TV. The DAC handles lossless formats up to 24-bit/192kHz, and MQA decoding is built in for MQA-encoded sources.

BluOS Streaming on the Cyrus 80 PRE

BluOS is integrated directly into the 80 PRE, providing access to Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, Amazon Music, TuneIn, and local network libraries. The platform supports multi-room grouping with other BluOS devices, and the app handles browsing, playback, and room management from your phone, tablet, or computer. AirPlay 2 and Roon Ready are both built in. For a separates system, having the streaming platform in the preamp rather than in a separate box keeps the signal path short and the component count low.

Balanced Headphone Output

The 80 PRE includes both a standard single-ended headphone output and a balanced headphone output. The balanced output uses separate amplifier channels for each driver, eliminating crosstalk and delivering more power to demanding headphones. If you own balanced headphones (or are considering them), this is a significant step up from the standard headphone output on the 80 AMP. For late-night listening or headphone-centric setups, the 80 PRE doubles as a capable headphone amplifier without needing a separate box.

Separates Performance from the Cyrus 80 PRE

The fundamental advantage of running separates is isolation. In a single-chassis amplifier, the preamp circuit lives next to a power section generating heat and electromagnetic interference. The 80 PRE separates the signal processing, DAC, and volume control into their own chassis, where they can operate in a quieter electrical environment. Pair it with the 80 PWR and the power amplifier handles nothing but amplification, resulting in a lower noise floor and better control at both low and high volumes. The balanced XLR connection between the two units keeps the signal clean over the interconnect.

Full-Width Chassis Design

The 80 PRE shares the same full-width aluminum chassis as the rest of the 80 Series. The wider footprint gives the engineering team more room for circuit isolation between the analog and digital sections, better thermal management, and a larger TFT display that shows album art and source info clearly from across the room. The matte black finish and industrial design language match the 40 Series, so you can stack an 80 PRE on an 80 PWR and mix in 40 Series components without any visual clash.

Build Your Cyrus System

The 80 PRE pairs directly with the Cyrus 80 PWR for a two-box separates system delivering 200W per channel (or 300W in bridged mono). For an all-in-one alternative, the Cyrus 80 AMP combines streaming, DAC, and amplification in a single chassis. The 80 Series is designed to sit alongside the 40 Series: add a 40 CD for disc playback, a 40 PPA for dedicated phono with four turntable inputs, or a 40 PSU to upgrade the power supply on any 40 Series component.

The Listening Room Difference

We're a third-generation family business with a brick-and-mortar showroom in Chestertown, Maryland, and a reputation built on exceptional service and relentless passion for hifi. Whether you're visiting in person or ordering online, we bring decades of experience, personalized service, and honest guidance to every interaction. We don't just ship boxes. We help build systems, answer your questions like real humans, and make sure every detail of your setup is right, from the cables to the final connection. Our passion is helping you get the most out of your gear, with support that lasts well beyond the sale.

Cyrus 80 PRE Specifications