Right off the bat, let’s get a pesky little question out of the way that keeps triggering hot debates among hi-fi fans: how do you actually pronounce “Keces”? The answer: with a soft “s” in the middle [kesÉ™s]. But regardless of how you say its name, the S4 preamp model from Keces definitely deserves attention – and not just because of its sonic qualities. The development time of two years clearly shows how much effort has gone into this device.
The Keces S4 reveals right away that it’s a device built to impress with quality craftsmanship. Not only is the preamplifier visually appealing, it also boasts a high-quality finish in every respect. Particularly noteworthy is the unusual housing width of just 30 centimeters – a deviation from the otherwise rather massive dimensions found on many preamps in this class. The compact design ensures that the S4 fits into any rack without giving up any of its presence. A detail that is by no means a matter of course in this price range: the solid aluminum remote control. While many other manufacturers rely on plastic here, Keces chooses consistancy and delivers a remote control that looks and feels just as high-quality and solid as the device itself. The feel is just as impressive as the design. A joy for all those who value details. But looks alone don’t make a good preamp. The Keces S4 scores above all with its fully symmetrical design. Each channel has its own circuit board, which ensures excellent channel separation. This not only contributes to a clean reproduction, but also to outstanding spatial representation and precision, which clearly stands out in comparison to preamps with conventional technology.
As is usual with Keces, the S4 also relies on an external power supply – a proven practice of the manufacturer, which has been known for years for its excellent linear power supplies. The S4’s power supply operates at a voltage of 36 volts, which is significantly higher than the 18 volts used by many other preamps. This voltage reserve makes a decisive contribution to the dynamic and energetic sound of the S4, which comes into its own with complex and demanding pieces of music.
Such a power supply not only ensures a clean and stable current delivery, but also ensures that even the finest tonal nuances remain unaffected by noise or unstable electronics. The result is a lively and clear presentation – exactly what audiophiles expect from a preamp in this class.
Another interesting detail of the Keces S4: The device has a microprocessor that is responsible for controlling the settings. However, as soon as these settings have been made, the processor switches itself off so as not to affect the sound of the audio signal. This clever solution shows how much value Keces places on sonic purity and technical ingenuity. No avoidable interference in the audio signal – the focus is entirely on maximum sound quality.
The S4’s integrated phono preamp deserves special mention. It is based on the technology of the S Phono from Keces and is also designed in a dual mono configuration. This means not only excellent channel separation, but also impressive musicality, making the S4 the perfect companion for vinyl lovers. The phono preamp sounds so good that it easily puts many an external model to shame.
Another highlight is the ability to switch between MM and MC cartridges. Not only that, the phono preamp can even process the special signals from DS Audio cartridges, making the S4 a real all-rounder for discerning vinyl listeners. Such flexibility is anything but a matter of course in this price range.
How does the S4 sound, then? To cut a long story short: it sounds warm, dynamic and yet extremely precise. The presentation is grippy and lively, with powerful bass, clear mids and smooth highs. The depth of detail offered by the device is particularly impressive. The advantages of the symmetrical design really get to shine here – the separation of instruments and voices is crystal clear. At the same time, the sound never slips towards the sterile or over-analytical – on the contrary, it always retains a natural musicality that immerses the listener in the music.
In the listening tests with Take A Pebble by Emerson, Lake & Palmer, the S4 demonstrated its ability to reproduce fine dynamic gradations in great detail. The piano sounded full of nuance, the cymbals shimmered gently and the entire recording had a depth of space that downright drew you into the music. The dynamic peaks were mastered effortlessly and without harshness.
Jon Lord’s “Pictured Within” also sounded fantastic: the cello was full and present, and the orchestral arrangements were reproduced with a musical warmth that many other preamps often lack. Particularly impressive was the S4’s ability to bring out the emotional depth of the piece without ever sounding overdone or intrusive.
Finally, Peter Gabriel’s “Sledgehammer” impressed me with crisp, tight bass lines and excellent timing. The rhythmic elements were wonderfully effective and the groove of the piece was absolutely gripping, demonstrating how much energy and dynamics the Keces preamp can bring to the music without tiring the listener. Another highlight that should not be overlooked is the S4’s built-in headphone amplifier. It passes the preamp signal one-to-one to the headphones without any detours, which ensures particularly clear and direct reproduction. For headphone enthusiasts, this means an unadulterated sound image that is just as dynamic and musical as that heard through loudspeakers. The headphone amplifier therefore sounds simply excellent and is a welcome addition to this versatile preamplifier.
The Keces S4 combines outstanding build quality with sonic excellence. Its warm, dynamic and precise sound, coupled with the flexibility of the phono preamp and excellent headphone output, makes it an excellent choice for discerning audiophiles. The 36-volt voltage of the external power supply, the fully balanced dual mono design and the high-quality remote control set benchmarks in this price range. Keces remains true to its reputation for building linear power supplies and superior sounding preamps that are an asset to any hi-fi enthusiast.
Accompanying Equipment
Streamer/music server: Meridian Sooloos | DAC: Candeias DAC | Integrated amplifier (used as power amplifier): Krell K300i | Turntable: VPI Prime Scout | Phono preamp: Van den Hul The Grail | Cables: Nordost Red Dawn cable family | Cassette deck: TEAC V-7010 | Speakers: Wilson Audio Sabrina X | Subwoofer: Velodyne DD12+ | Rack: Bassocontinuo Accordeon
Preamplifier Keces S4
Concept: Preamplifier with external power supply | Analog inputs: 1 x RCA, 1 x phono (MM/MC), 2 x XLR | Digital inputs: 1 x optical | Phono input impedance: 56 Ω, 100 Ω, 220 Ω, 470 Ω and 47 kΩ (MC); 47 kΩ (MM) | Analog outputs: 2 x RCA, 1 x XLR, 4-pin headphone connection | Distortion (THD+N): < 0.02 % (MM), < 0.05 % (MC), < 0.0015 % (RCA/XLR) | Signal-to-noise ratio: 78 dB (MM), 70 dB (MC), 110 dB (RCA/XLR) | Power consumption (standby/max. ): 0.5 W/20 W | Special features: External linear power supply (S4 Power), which delivers “clean” DC+-48 V and +15 V to the S4; gold-plated XLR/balanced output sockets, input for DS cartridges | Accessories: metal remote control | Dimensions (W/H/D): 30/7/28 cm each | Weight: 3.5 kg (S4), 4.5 kg (power supply) | Warranty period: 2 years | Price: around €4000
Robert Ross Audiophile Produkte
AlemannenstraĂźe 23
85095 Denkendorf
Phone +49 8466 905030
r.ross@robertross.de