Shoot-out Klyne 7xp3.5 vs IO Signature

NKJ, I had a Klyne 2.5 and thought it was fantastic. I eventually ended up with a custom tube pre with eq settings (simple JE Labs RCA circuit w/no feedback).

At the same time I had the Klyne, I had two other solid state phonos: Dynavector P75 and ASR Mini Basis w/chip upgrade. The P75 finished third in these comparisons (as would makes sense when looking at price). The ASR had a nice fat tone with truly amazing dynamics (best I ever had from phono playback) but sounded mechanical. I felt the Klyne was perfect sounding but eventually ended up with a FF tube pre w/eq so that I could play my 78s and early monos.

Can't wait to hear about the comparison...

Hello,

I've had the Klyne for a little while and actually have been too busy to report back. The Io has a sense of stage space and air that is expansive it's lowest resgisters on my system are slightly plump. The top end of the Io does not sound unnatural but some may argue that it is not hyper extended and have a shimmering quality. My system is quiet. With the Io I have no noise problems.

The Klyne is clean clean, with an extended top end and and very defined punchy lower register. It does not have quite the expansiveness of width of the Io. It's stage depth is very good. This is an exceptional solid state unit that I could easily live with and from a form factor point of view certainly is preferable to the Io. It does not grand stand and draw attention to itself. Very refined with great user adjustable features that will play with audio neurotics fears for some time.

I am keeping both for now and continue to build my opinion. On the used market, if you can find one, I would recommend the Klyne.

Nkj,
I have the identical opinion.
Happy Listening.

Nkj, Would you care to tell us what amp and speakers you are using, what music you prefer, etc? As far as I can tell your system is not posted. Thanks.
Anyone here ever compare the Klyne to the Pass Xono?

Lewm,

I should really post my system. For now:

· Oracle V
· SME V
· Garrard 301 here:
http://gallery.audioasylum.com/cgi/view.mpl?u=127&f=DSC00407.JPG&v=f&UserImages=127&session=&&moniker=AJ&invite=&w=675&h=506
· Koetsu Rosewood Signature Platinum, Lyra Helikon, Benz Ruby 2
· Aesthetix Io Signature, 2 supplies, with volume controls
· Wyetech Topaz 211C
· Berning ZH-270
· Quad ESL Piquet refurb. and Quad USA monitors
· Valhalla cables

An admiration for vintage too with:

· Futterman H3
· Citation II
· Marantz 2
· Others

Music taste run to jazz, vocal and will rock out from time to time. The bass "quality" with the Esl’s is quite good.

Regards,