Best Preamp under 10K

I agree with Gerrym5, and his comments about the Aesthetix. I've owned the Aesthetix IO (phono stage) for a good while, and just recently purchased the Callisto (line stage). the Aesthetix line stage is the best preamp I have ever heard, and I have owned or auditioned most of what is listed on this posting. Please give it a listen for yourself. The bass, dynamics, phase accuracy and contrast is undeniable, it truly makes the music a more believable experience.

the VIVA from Italy. $8000

Hey Albert, You haven't tried the Tube Research ... Your friend, Brian

hey albert, have ewe ever listened to a melos ma-333 or music-director? it's given me the same sensations ewe describe about the aesthetics callisto. don't tell me that i'm not done upgrading my preamp yet! ;~) doug

Direct-connect a good CD player with volume control (Mark Levinson 39, Wadias, Metronome, etc.) to your amp. Cost $0.