2. amps-preamps
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Aesthetix Calypso vs. ?

I have this on loan from my dealer, and am wondering what other preamps I should try within this price range.

I think the Calypso betters my BAT 3iX, without the 3iX's somewhat closed in on top and darkish midrange.

The 3iX does seem to win in the midbass, and I still very much like the its overal soundstage presentation. I'm wondering if I should try some tuberolling with the 3iX before I give up on it. I just have the standard Electro-Harmonix 6922s in it right now.

(I tried some Tung Sol 12AX7s I had in the closet in the Calypso. Lovelier midrange and deeper soundstage than the Sovteks, but too much hiss).
daverz

Showing 9 responses by daverz

daverz OP
487 posts
 
Thanks, Mitch.

* I would prefer balanced or at least an XLR output, since my amp is XLR only, but I'm not doctrinaire on that point.

* I'm leaning toward tubes, but want mostly want to avoid a lean or dry sound.

* A passive would have to offer at least two inputs, since I still listen to records.

* The input impedance of my amp (a BAT VK-250) is 100K Ohm.
daverz OP
487 posts
 
@Mark, thanks, looks interesting, though I don't have enough feedback for the free demo.

@Nik, I think the Calypso I have on loan is an older model without the jumpers. Or at least they are not where people say they are. The gain *is* too high for my DAC and amp. Guess I'll ask the dealer.

I talked to Kevin at Upscale audio, and he thought a Primaluna Dialogue 3 would "smoke" the BAT (they also sell BAT). But, duh, I didn't think to ask him about the Calypso because my original question was about tube rolling the BAT (he doesn't think the dark character can be changed much.)
daverz OP
487 posts
 
@Rwwear, the Calypso seems to have good "jump" factor in my system.
daverz OP
487 posts
 
Is it possible to use 12aU7s in place of the 12ax7s, especially considering the huge gain the Calypso has? I have some Mullard CV4003s.
daverz OP
487 posts
 
I think it's just a very old unit. If I go with the Calypso, I'll probably get new unit.
daverz OP
487 posts
 
Groan.

Seriously, which BAT do you have? I have to say that I still prefer the 3iX's big soundstage presentation. I may just stand pat.
daverz OP
487 posts
 
@mds

Thanks, that would be very helpful!
daverz OP
487 posts
 
@Atmasphere, I don't want to limit myself to balanced gear, though. It's nice to hear those Neutrik connectors go "click!", though.

I just tried some EH 6922s in the Calypso. I didn't think Sovtek -> EH would make a big difference, but it seems to make a huge difference in terms of soundstage depth and spaciousness.
daverz OP
487 posts
 
I take back what I said about the Calypso bettering the 3ix. The Calypso does have more treble extension and more neutral midrange, but I just find the big, dramatic soundstage the 3ix presents to be hard to leave. I think part of the effect is due to the plumper midbass of the 3ix, but there's more depth to the soundstage as well. Now maybe the Calypso will do better with NOS tubes, but the 3iX is doing its thing with $15 Electro-Harmonix tubes.
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