Music reference/ audio research / vpi

Normally it's best to put the horse before the wagon. I.E. Speakers first.
Axpona is coming up, a good source to hear many products.
Nearby dealers or Audio clubs is another source for hearing potential products.
Sometimes a manufacturer can put you in touch with someone in your area to demo their product for you.
Get the speakers you like then build the system to make them shine.
Or you can try to push a rope. LOL

Congrats. Your RM with the 40's should be a stellar combo.
I have had an Aesthetix Calypso and enjoyed it until a friend asked me if the residual noise from it bothered me? I didn't understand his question until he brought over his pre to replace it for an audition. Then I heard what he was referring to. Once heard it is easy to pick out and I was no longer able to keep it in my system and immediately replaced it.  I'm not sure if this is present in the signature models but it has been repeatedly heard in several std models. I have been questioned about the tubes that I was using. I have a VERY large collection of tubes and changing the tubes did not correct the problem.
While your results may be different, I would encourage an in home audition before purchasing one. I feel that for the same money there are much better pre's out there.
Keep us posted on your thought on the 40's.

There are those that can hear a difference in wires and there are those that can hear a difference in tubes (of the same type).
Congrats to those that can't because you will save a bunch of money that could be used to buy more music.