I had and aesthetix Rhea signature with a premium tube set at the same time as a Zesto, a herron and a cheap ASL phono. In short the aesthetixs finished last in sound quality, even behind the ASL that was worth about $600 new(it did have mods). The Herron was first, which I bought new after this experience, The Zesto was second and the ASL was third, with the aesthetics bringing up a distant fourth. I was very surprised given the price tag which was by far the highest of the group and the rave reviews they have received.
I know these are phonostages where as you are talking about line stages but after that experience I would never buy anything aesthetixs.
I know these are phonostages where as you are talking about line stages but after that experience I would never buy anything aesthetixs.