Aethetix IO Signature Question

Is it a very musical phono stage?

radrog05-17-2008 7:10am

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rushton Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 2,445 posts 05-18-2008 at 02:09am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Radrog, I use the Io with a .36mv output moving coil cartridge, use the stock tubes, and don't experience any material tube noise from my listening seat at my normal listening volumes. But keep in mind, the Io generates 80db of gain entirely through active tube gain stages. This is very challenging, so the quality of the tubes in these gain stages is critical. The stock tubes have always worked fine for me. .
radrog OP Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 157 posts 05-18-2008 at 02:32am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Thanks for all the help. I am looking forward to receiving the Signature unit (dealer said 4 to 6 weeks). I honestly believe this unit is one of the best out there just by reviews and your help. If you care to answer one more question. Would it be beneficial to go all tubes or keep the solid state preamp and monoblocks ?????
fmpnd Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 481 posts 05-18-2008 at 03:15am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Again, I agree with Ruston on the noise issue as mine was also not too noisy with the stock tubes and my Dynavector XV-1s. Sure it has a little tube rush when the music is not playing but I never noticed it when I dropped the cartridge, That said, if you DO want to quiet it down even more, you can place four good Telefunkens 12AX7s in the first gain stage and tube rush will likely be NO problem at all (no need to replace all 12 unless you have the funds and simply want to). I've had mine in for 6 years and haven't had any problems. Good luck with your audition and let us know your impressions. Frank
rushton Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 2,445 posts 05-18-2008 at 04:17am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Would it be beneficial to go all tubes or keep the solid state preamp and monoblocks ????? There's no absolute answer to this, I'm afraid. For my listening priorities, all tubes is the path I've followed and will continue to follow. But there are too many variables for there to be only a single path to getting great sound out of your system. One caution: don't believe the "too much of a good thing" comment so often tossed about with respect to having all tubes. As always, system balance, synergy and paying attention to the details are the key to a great sounding system. .
r_f_sayles Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 872 posts 05-19-2008 at 12:42am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Radrog, Is it a very musical phono stage? Why not let your ears decide. You may enjoy the journey as well as the destination. Cheap way out for conversation sake, "yes, it is very musical and very detailed and airy" Happy Listening!

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