Seeking Suggestions on Preamp Upgrade (CJ, Aesthetix, EAR)


I have about $5,000 budget to upgrade a preamp.  I am using Luxman 550 integrated as a preamp currently, it sounds a bit too lean to me.  Rest of the system are Pass XA30.5, Dynaudio Contour 3.4, Marantz reference SACD.  I am thinking CJ CT5/ET5, CJ ACT2, Aesthetix Calypiso, EAR 868, or Zesto Leto.  Thank you very much!

davidhe19audio

Showing 1 response by jeffstarr

I have a CJ CT-5 which I use with a Legacy [Coda built] amp. I am really happy with it, but it is one preamp that you can't do much tube rolling, the 6h30 comes in 3 varieties, and the NOS version is now sky high.
If I was looking for a preamp in your price range, consider the PS Audio BHK  Signature preamp, they offer very good deals with a trade in. And a 30 day trial period.
How it would match up with your other gear, no idea. Just one more to consider.