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Herron 1A,, Herron 2A, Modwright LS100 or Aesthetix Calypso?

I have narrowed down my pre choices to these. I would like to hear what opinions there are, maybe even from actual owners. I have owned a Shrimp and BAT VK3ix in the past. I definitely want to take a step up. The Calypso is at the top of my budget. I am not able to audition any, just buy and hope I made the correct choice. If it matters, my amp is a Rogue stereo 90 magnum. I am currently using the Eximus DP-1 DAC/Pre and a Salk Streamer tied to Aerial 8 speakers. Obviously I will have to pursue a DAC as well.
dpm2340
onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
4,163 posts
 
Depending on the size of your listening room and your volume preferences you might be better off changing for a higher power amplifier.
dpm2340 OP
71 posts
 
my listening is small, unfortunately. 13' x 16'

dpm2340 OP
71 posts
 
my goal here is to change from the dac/pre to a separate pre and dac.
pdreher's avatar
pdreher
828 posts
 
I owned a BAT VK 30 and didn't care for it.  I had a Calypso about 8 years ago and regrettably sold it to try an integrated.   Ended up going back to separates and got a decent deal on a used Calypso Signature with good NOS tubes and have had it for approx. 4 years with no issues.   I have no interest in trying other preamps.  The Calypso and Calypso Sig. when tubed properly are hard to beat.  

I've heard good very things about Herron, but have not tried them.  It's a brand that seems to fly under the radar, but has a loyal following.

I've owned two Modwright digital sources and found them to be decent, but not good enough to keep. 

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