New Preamp in da House! - Aesthetix Audio Calypso - Now With Tube Failure Update!

prime minister

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To be technical, in the storage locker. But I digress. Picked up a very interesting Aesthetix Audio Calypso tube preamp today. Ultra modern, full dual mono, and controlled by a somewhat homely, but very effective, remote control. This beauty has been incredibly well reviewed for a decade now. Sadly, as I am still between homes, I won’t be able to hear it until sometime around Feb 1. If it is all I hope it to be, then I’ve got my long term keeper.
 
Great looking unit and definitely reviews to match! Can’t wait to read your thoughts on it.
Just recently stopped by a local hi-fi store and was speaking to the gentleman about how I am looking to upgrade my preamp. He mentioned that it is the heart of the system.... so I am thinking long and hard about my next move. Looks like you’ve made a good one!
 
Congratulations bud! Enjoy it in good health. I look forward to hearing your impressions.
 
I’m living vicariously through this one :). I hope it lives up to all the rave reviews, and adds that little bit of perfect seasoning to the system like great preamps can. I think this ahead of those ICEpower modules should be just right. Fingers crossed and congrats. That tube haul is fantastic.
 
I’ve heard the Aesthetix Rhea phono stage on several occasions. A fabulous bit of kit that I enjoyed immensely. I would expect their preamp to perform equally well.
 
How does the build quality feel in person? I'm still considering one of these for when (if) I want to play, again, with an active preamp.
 
How does the build quality feel in person? I'm still considering one of these for when (if) I want to play, again, with an active preamp.

Lovely. Not overbuilt or designed to impress other audiophiles with how expensive the case is. There is a very high quality, slightly industrial feel when you pop off the lid. A bit like a really nice, early 80s computer case. Everything as it needs to be. No corners cut. No useless excess.
 
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