Aesthetix Calypso Signature vs. ARC REF 3

I agree w/Swanny76109..Didnt like the build quality..and its too cameleon like changing its sound from tube to tube..I prefer a pre that doesnt wave in the wind with different tubes

Take a look at the build quality of a Pass XP10 which is my current preamp. It is solid state, I admit. But there is no comparison to Aesthetix--Pass is light years beyond and is a company that has been around for a long time. The OP is looking for "the last preamp I buy" and I would not put the Aesthetix in that class based on my experience with it--hence my cautionary note. Not to dismiss the many positive reviews and fans out there who enjoy the Calypso and its sound quality. But like the OP I was looking for my last preamp ever (maybe!) and I think the Pass is it. To each his/her own, as always, and caveat emptor.

I do wonder what it is about the Aesthetix preamp that makes it so prone to comments like, "with the right tubes...." This label seems to have stuck in a way that you don't hear about other tube preamps (certainly not to the same extent), even if you are a tuberoller. If true, it would be one reason for me not to choose it, especially for a lifetime pre, where those NOS beasties will be getting scarcer and scarcer. If a preamp can't sound goos with current production it would be off my list - even if I do use NOS.

Thanks Guys, a lot of food for thought, I had been leaning towards a REF 3 but the Calypso keeps coming up as a suggestion. I have a LS26 now and if ARC doesn't come out with an LS27 soon I am looking for the REF3. My dealer has me on his list if he gets a trade. I have never heard the Calypso but the comments here have kind of guided me back to the ARC route. I have heard one in my system and loved it but, we always want more right? The only other consideration is the McIntosh C500T, but never heard one either. It is easier to buy a 40000 car than a 10000 pre amp, since you can go to dealer and he has one to test drive. Audio companies should have demos that you could try at home for a week. It would be worth the freight charges, and I would think for them it would increase sales.

i'm a new calypso owner - stock tubes - am am EXTREMELY impressed with it. i don't find it lacking in build quality or sonics.

@ Pdreher: "and with the right tubes, it sounds great." would you mind elaborating what you tried and found?