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Aesthetix IO vs. Manley Steelhead vs. The Groove

For those who have heard at least two of these, please compare the sound quality of any of the following three phono preamps:

1. Aesthetix IO or IO Signature
2. Manley Steelhead
3. The Groove

Let me know what you think of the sonic biases
and flaws in these products as well as what each does especially well. Any t/t and cart recommendations which work especially well with any of these would be recommended.


Thanks,

Ray Hall
rayhall
tireguy
1,964 posts
 
Frank- It doesn't need to get any better, in my opinion you should be committed already :0)- you left yourself open for that one!
gladstone
296 posts
 
Frank, what could possibly be next? New speakers?
gladstone
296 posts
 
How does the retubed unit sound?
thomasheisig
568 posts
 
Your question about the sound of a retubed unit:
I use a Callisto Signature withe NOS Telefunkens ( 12AX7 ), Mullard (EL34) and RCA (5692) tubes very close to these above.
It simply sounds real ( natural ? ), the soundstage is bigger and more open, the dynamics is improved and it is simply not possible for me, to go back. I can not find any weakness.

It is like another owner once wrote me, that it is simply impossible to be without it.
(And I seriously think about purchasing an IO sign.)
gladstone
296 posts
 
I believe it. But Frank is still in hiding. Or blissfully listening to the IO and deaf to this exchange.
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