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Aesthetix vs ARC

I have a general question for those familiar with the two companies listed above. I'm currently using an Aesthetix Calypso which I consider a top tier preamp. Recently I've been thinking about trying an ARC reference preamp. To be more specific a reference 5 or 5se. I expect the ARC 5SE to rate higher but i'm not sure how their sound signature compares to the Calypso. Please don't ask what is that I don't like about the Calypso or how much do I have to spend, etc. I just want to know the sonic signature of the Ref 5se compared to the Calypso. I do change equipment from time to time like everyone else.
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ivanj
35 posts
 
lumniscape, which speakers and cables are you using, if you please?

rspyder
98 posts
 
I have the ARC Ref 10 preamp and I haven't found another pre that bests it.  It's limitless.
limniscate
241 posts
 
Magnepan 3.7i's 
Mainly using Cerious Technologies Graphene Extreme cables (speaker, power cable to ARC Ref5SE and Magtech)
Shunyata Alpha HC to my Schiit Yggdrasil, Shunyata Zitron Python from Yggdrasil to Ref5SE, Groneberg TS Premium from REF5SE to Magtech 

I just got the Merrill Veritas for demo today and am using different interconnects and power cables.
ewah
3 posts
 
Both are excellent, having owned the Aesthetix and now owning the ARC 5se, I can honestly say the ARC is way superior.  Bass, soundstaging and portraying a sense of realism are just some of the areas the ARC beats the Aesthetix.  Also, Aesthetix customer service was not up to high end standards.
limniscate
241 posts
 
I think it’s unfair to compare the Ref5SE to the Calypso Signature because of the price difference ($13k v. $7k); a fairer comparison would be the Calypso Eclipse to the Ref5SE (~$10k v. $13k).

As far as customer service, Glenn at Aesthetix has always been responsive to my emails and phone calls.
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