2. amps-preamps
  3. 132216-29485

Please help me chose a tube preamp

I have an opportunity to buy an  Aesthetix Calypso Line Stage amp, I need to know what you all think of it, please.
I do not want to buy something based on reviews of high end audio publications, for I do not want to make the same mistake when I bought Totem model one, Triangle Titus, Audio Research LS3B. All  of these  were a major disappointment for me. 

There is a VTL TL 2.5 available as well, for less then half the price tag of Aesthetix.
I have a Levinson 431 power amp that  will be paired with the selected preamp.

Anyone have any experiences with this Aesthetix and VTL?

Cheers
 
audiomaster
starboard
11 posts
 
I use the Dehavilland Ultraverve 3 remote pre and am very happy with it. It has a very big sound and is extremely quiet. I have owned several tube pres and I have never owned one that is quiet until I bought the dehavilland. 
You can get a new one built for $2500 or used for around $1800 or so. I see there is one listed on Audiogon now. 
NO It’s not mine. Mines not for sale !!!

Good Luck
smokenjo
25 posts
 

GIRI, WHAT PREAMP DID YOU REPLACE WITH THE SLP-05

I ALSO JUST ORDER  THE SLP-05 WITH UPGRADE (ultimate)

I had a arc ls27 hope i did the right change

giri
32 posts
 
I had YBA 1 delta, which had “tubey” sound but more uniform response through the frequencies. Cary is a magnitude better in all respects. I paid about $6000 for YBA about 12 years ago, so, not a cheap unit.
you will be amazed sound of Cary but make sure you put 100 hours on it before form an opinion. I am sure you will like Cary better than ARC, which I found in past not to my liking. Good listening!
rbodner
13 posts
 
I love concert fidelity 
hiphile
29 posts
 
As mentioned by some posters my experience the Calypso and Rhea was also disappointing. Reliability issues and the sound didn't stand up with audio press enlightning comments
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