Aethetix IO Signature Question

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 ?????

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

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.
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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!

:o)