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Seeking Suggestions on Preamp Upgrade (CJ, Aesthetix, EAR)

I have about $5,000 budget to upgrade a preamp.  I am using Luxman 550 integrated as a preamp currently, it sounds a bit too lean to me.  Rest of the system are Pass XA30.5, Dynaudio Contour 3.4, Marantz reference SACD.  I am thinking CJ CT5/ET5, CJ ACT2, Aesthetix Calypiso, EAR 868, or Zesto Leto.  Thank you very much!

davidhe19audio
davidhe19audio OP
19 posts
 
Hi, tooblue:  Thank you for your response.  My list contained LAMM originally but I read through the on-line information and found there were some discussions relate to LAMM's QC issue, which prompted me to drop it from the list.  Likely you have encountered them.  What is your taken?



jayctoy's avatar
jayctoy
3,853 posts
 
I heard 2 aesthetix  preamp one is calypso, this are excellent unit, I will buy one, without thinking, if I can afford it, they are so neutral, and full sounding, and well made....
jayctoy's avatar
jayctoy
3,853 posts
 
The other unit is 7k, I forgot the name, between the 5k and 7k, for me the 2k difference is not worth it.
rsf507
2,253 posts
 
How about an Atmasphere pre? Very neutral but must use a balanced amp to get best results.
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,291 posts
 
How about a Rogue RP-5 tube preamp?  Loads of inputs/outputs and sounds excellent, especially with 4 NOS Mullard tubes.
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