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

HI
Don Sachs here.  I see I have been talked about.   I would love to build the OP a preamp, but he has an amplifier with a 15K input impedance.  I could certainly use a really large output capacitor value and drive that load, but it has been my experience that the sp14 design, while a fantastic preamp, has some issues driving loads less than 30-40K input impedance.  It will do it, but sometimes may not be as dynamic as people want.  I would say this may apply to many tube preamps.  Really, I recommend my preamp for loads of 47K or higher.  It will work with anything, but sounds best with a more benign load.  Any tube amp in the world is 70-80K or higher:)

cheers,
Don

Can't believe no one mentioned Ayre.  (my personal fav)

I'd recommend you investigate the Primaluna Dialogue Premium which I now own. I've owned CJ ET-2SE, Aesthetix Calypso, Allnic L1500, AR LS17SE, and First Sound Presence Deluxe MKII in the past 4 years. If it wasn't for the lack of remote, the First Sound is the most impressive I've yet heard and I would have lived with it long term. The Pirma lacks the sheer dynamics of the First Sound, but is otherwise equally enjoyable. Good luck in your search.
Mike

+1 for the Primaluna Dialogue Premium pre recommendation. Performance far-far beyond its price range!!! A tube rollers delight... 

Hi David,
I have been using the Aesthetix Calypso with Genelex Gold Lion tubes that I got from Kevin Deal of Upscale Audio. A great upgrade from the original stock tubes. The preamp has worked flawlessly from the time I purchased it. Its a neutral sounding  pre , highly musical and bullet proof.  Its a match made in heaven with my Jadis. I would highly recommend the Aesthetix Calypso ( with the tube upgrade, or you can also get NOS Telefunken, albeit , a little more expensive tubes  & get an even better sound   sound )