2. amps-preamps
  3. 132216-29485

Please help me chose a tube preamp

I have an opportunity to buy an  Aesthetix Calypso Line Stage amp, I need to know what you all think of it, please.
I do not want to buy something based on reviews of high end audio publications, for I do not want to make the same mistake when I bought Totem model one, Triangle Titus, Audio Research LS3B. All  of these  were a major disappointment for me. 

There is a VTL TL 2.5 available as well, for less then half the price tag of Aesthetix.
I have a Levinson 431 power amp that  will be paired with the selected preamp.

Anyone have any experiences with this Aesthetix and VTL?

Cheers
 
audiomaster
giri
39 posts
 
I had YBA 1 delta, which had “tubey” sound but more uniform response through the frequencies. Cary is a magnitude better in all respects. I paid about $6000 for YBA about 12 years ago, so, not a cheap unit.
you will be amazed sound of Cary but make sure you put 100 hours on it before form an opinion. I am sure you will like Cary better than ARC, which I found in past not to my liking. Good listening!
rbodner
52 posts
 
I love concert fidelity 
hiphile
32 posts
 
As mentioned by some posters my experience the Calypso and Rhea was also disappointing. Reliability issues and the sound didn't stand up with audio press enlightning comments
hiphile
32 posts
 
Check out Don Sachs preamp. Great stuff for the price!
whitestix
719 posts
 
+ 1 on Hiphile's recommendation.  I was the third proud owner of the excellent preamp.  His newest version is three generations improved from mine.  Google Don Sachs preamp for many excellent reviews of the preamp.  It is truly outstanding preamp for around $2K.  I'd bet it would be very comparable to the Cary Audio SPL 05 for about 25% of the cost.  Both preamps employ venerable 6SN7 tubes, which is where the magic lies.  
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