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Modwright LS-100, Rogue RP-7, Aesthetix Calypso

I currently own a Rogue RP-1 and am looking to upgrade. Budget is ~2,500 (used). I have shortlisted the following 4 preamps:

  • Rogue RP-7 (V1)
  • Aestetix Calypso (Standard)
  • Modwright LS-100
  • Modwright SWL 9.0 AE

In order of preference: smoothness, dynamics, moderate to light warmth, detail, soundstage.

It is being paired with a Classe CA-2200 amp, Laiv uDAC+uDDC, and a pair of Audio Concepts Jaguar 2000s. 

I like how the RP-1 has the dynamics and detail of a SS but also adds some tube warmth and smoothness.

Would love to hear your experience with any of these 4 preamps individually, how they compare, or how you would characterize their sound.

Thanks!

songbird888
songbird888 OP
8 posts
 

With regard to the tube rectified aspect, just how important is that to the sound quality? I am not that versed in the design of tube gear. What is the thinking around the rectification aspect?

rrboogie
69 posts
 

I had the Rogue RP-7 followed by the Modwright LS 36.5 in my system. Both are amazing preamps. Well built, sound similar and had similar features. I see that the RP-7 is a V2 and the LS36.5 is discontinued. The current Modwright offering that meets your criteria is the LS300 as it is true balanced design. The LS100 has XLR input but is single ended. 

buellrider97's avatar
buellrider97
946 posts
 

+1 rrboogie as to the Modwright not being fully balanced an oversight on my part.  Also to the op rrboogie has been able to convey an opinion from actual experience. In the various tube gear I’ve had , some with tube rectification allow more than one value of rectifier tube. My experience is that rolling various rectifier tubes has allowed me to tailor my sound and also overthink things. Cheers , Mike B. 

jafant's avatar
jafant
21,605 posts
 

songbird888

Consult Jim White (Aesthetix) via email or phone. He is helpful and quite receptive.

His Calypso pre-amp is excellent in stock form plus offers upgrades down the road.

 

Happy Listening!

songbird888 OP
8 posts
 

How about the Cary SLP-03 compared to the Modwright or the Aesthetix? It can be found for very cheap. I would love to go for the SLP-05 but it's well beyond my budget.

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