Coincident Statement Pre Vs Aesthetix Calypso Pre

While I have had no direct experience with either of these 2 preamps, let me make a suggestion...

List your remaining components which may allow others to relate their experience with synergy among components and why it is you are looking at these 2 specific preamps. Its quite possible that there is another preamp out there that may be a better match for your system and your desired outcome...

Rgd,

Stereo Amp - Pass Labs X250.5
CD Transport - CEC TL1
DAC - Theta pro basic
Speakers - Harbeth SHL 5

I hope to try out balanced (XLR) i/o - found out recently that while preamps may have xlr i/o, the amp may not have a balanced circuitry,,, hope to get a preamp with both rca and true balanced circuitry... my budget is about $6,000 - besides the two preamp mentioned, i am open to other recommendations. Preamp should be tube... or hybrid tube...

Thanks

I have the Aesthetix and have nothing but good things to say about it. I would defiantly buy it again. You are correct in wanting to get a true balanced preamp and not just something with XLR connectors on it. Your amp is fully balanced so it makes sense to get a balanced pre. If you find that the Aesthetix is not for you, I would look at BAT. Great products, as well, but a different sound.

I've owned two Calypso's and currently have the Signature version. Great dependable preamp that responds well to tube rolling.

As an aside, in addition to changing your pre, your Harbeth's would really sing with a tube amp. I used to run Harbeth M-40.1's with McIntosh MC275 MKV and a Calypso preamp. It was a great combo. Highly recommended.