Decide between ARC Ref 6SE and Aesthetix Calypso Eclipse

well…..first what a wonderful position to be in..those are two awesome and fantastic preamps to choose from. I am certainly no stranger to either including your downstream components - i run the 7 mk2 and RV’s 7 high pass amplifiers. The pairing of M5 and Kento is super nice. I also have an ARC ref5se and Jim Whites ( of Aesthetix fame ) Signature DAC… so I get an appreciate tge Aesthetix sonics and construction. Up to me, i would go ARC but we are splitting micro hairs here for sure…

i just helped a friend w M5, Quattro and he chose the Aesthetix pre ( used and upgraded to signature but not eclipse )

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PM me if i can be of any insight or help

Jim

Also both the ARC and Aesthetix benefit from tubes and isolation. HRS preferred for both IMO and certainly that is the brand Aesthetix use in the DAC. I run a bad A nos 1960 Tung Sol usa 6550 in the Ref5se…. transformative 

Jim

https://systems.audiogon.com/systems/3803#&gid=1&pid=1

of course you know the purity and magic of the balsa and carbon fiber drivers and purpose built high pass amplifiers…

fun

They are both good choices but i would look for a pre 1997 arc preamp because it will outperform both of them and for a lot less money.

I recently spent an hour with the ARC REF 6SE (powered by ARC 160M mono blocks) with the Vandersteen Kento speakers and was very impressed.  Like you, I listen to a lot of jazz and classic rock. Great imaging, accuracy and huge soundstage. Unfortunately I have not heard the Aesthetix Calypso so I can’t give you my impressions on that component.  If you go with the ARC, I’m sure you’ll be very happy.