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Aesthetix Calypso vs First Sound Presence Deluxe

I would like to compare the Calypso to the First Sound Presence Deluxe. I have heard the Calypso at a dealers showroom but I have yet to find a dealer For the First Sound. Both preamp are around the price point I was looking to spend. Both get wonderful reviews. The Calypso has balanced inputs and outputs and a remote control which the First Sound does not. The First Sound has a outboard power supply and is a little cheaper, plus can be upgraded very easy. Both of the preamps seem to be at the top of the class in this price range. As I said before, I have not heard the First Sound, which I hope to.
I Would love to do a side by side comparaison at home in my own system, but without a dealer for the First Sound in my area that seems impossible. Am I missing anything not hearing the First Sound ? I was very impressed by the Calypso, and this was just at the showroom. I haven't heard it at home yet.
Which Preamp will deliver more warmth, Bloom, detail and soundstage ?
My current system consists of Audio Research VT 100, LS16mk1,PH3SE,VPI Scout, Marantz 8260 sacd. All cables throughout are Virtual Dynamics Masters. Speakers our Audes Grand Blues. Room size is 29x24x7.
Thanks for any input. Brian
brouch
brouch OP
84 posts
 
Thanks everybody for your input. I did forget to mention I live in Indiana, Go Irish !!
I guess my mindset for some reason is that the First Sound may sound to bright or dry in some systems. I do want and enjoy detail, but some preamps seem a little bright. This is how the LS25 sounded to me after a while listening. This is why I am asking about the warmth. I did get a phone number to First Sound off their web site. Brian
oldpet
295 posts
 
the FS doesn't sound "dry". You can tailor the sound based on the tubes you use.

dry - no!

best
Ag insider logo xs@2x
drubin
3,274 posts
 
Nor bright.
cenline
238 posts
 
I've had the Master cables and they are extremely high in resolution and would definitely show the warmth ( I cannot endorse know deviations from neutral). If you think a FS pre would be dry, then you really need to audition this unit! I found my Fs to be one of the most musical units I've ever owned.If you like a massive soundstage with 3-d images that you can touch (be very careful with the images-especially when it's D.Krall), the FS will give it to you in a huge way.The FS is a music lovers tool, it doesn't have a remote or balanced connectors( E.GO thinks single ended is the only way to go) but offers a rare glimpse into the tone and timbre of the music. I wish I could try my Master cables on the FS since I only had Cardas at the time. Before you buy you must audition both, to see what fits-Take care Dennis
brouch OP
84 posts
 
Thanks for the insight on the FS. D. Krall is wonderful now with the LS16. Somewhat mind-boggling to understand the improvements the FS can make on the tone and timber of music. I also know the 16 is masking some of the tonal color, for search of a better word. And yes, no remote is bother some, as I have owned with and without before.
I also talked to Mr. Go and without a dealer base, auditioning is a challange before buying.I will be calling gcaudio today as I'm off work for a unit to audition.Brian
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