Aesthetix Io vs Lamm LP2

I haven't had any experience with the Io. I have had both the Lamm L-1 preamp and the LP-2, which I still have. Although "dark" is a gross over-simplification, that MIGHT be applied to the L-1, but absolutely not to the LP-2, which is extraordinarily neutral to my ears.

I would call the LP2 neutral as well, and dead quiet to boot, quieter than the IO's I've heard (and they're no slouches in that department either). I have not heard the IO in my system, but would put the Lamm on the same sonic playing field based on my experience in my system and my hearing both units in other systems. You really should find a dealer willing to lend you a Lamm to try out in your system, but I'd say they're both superb units, I chose the Lamm in good part for practical considerations involving available space for my front end components and the number of tubes in the IO.

Standard or Signature version... For those commenting, it would be very helpful if you would specify whether you are comparing the standard version or the Signature version of the Io. There is a very material sound quality difference between the two.

Actually, Rich, which one do you have in your system? I've only heard the original two-box version of the IO, not the one with the two power supplies, which I'd imagine is better (but still too many tubes to take care of!).