Aesthetix IO vs. Manley Steelhead vs. The Groove

Err.. Would be appreciated, not recommended. It is getting late and I'm getting tired.

Thanks, Cardiackid.

Fmpnd,

Concerning tables/arm/cartridge, I don't know. I would be starting an analog system from scratch. My current system is First Sound Presence Deluxe Mk II 4.0 linestage, Pass Aleph 4 amp and Vandersteen 3A Signature. I also have a CAT SL-1 Ultimate preamp. I will probably mate the First Sound with a still unselected amplifier and the Vandersteen's in a vinyl system. The CAT and Aleph 4 will go into another system with yet undecided speakers. I would be looking for a vinyl setup with great extension, great dynamics, great transparency, wide soundstage, smoothness, in short, everything. There are a lot of purchases and decisions to be made, so things may develop slowly and there may be some compromises initially made for financial reasons, but probably not in the phono preamp area. I don't like pouring money down the drain, so if there is something which is as good, nearly as good, or even better and cheaper, I am all for that. If you have any recommendations above the budget tables/arms/carts up to ultimate combos, I would be interested to know.

I would also be very much interested in as detailed a comparison as you are willing to post of your Manley vs. the IO Sig when that arrives.

Thanks

Thanks FMPND,

Please let us know about your tube-rolling experiments and results.