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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
jafant's avatar
jafant
21,611 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.

elliottbnewcombjr
7,776 posts
 

I had Fisher 80AZ Mono Amps for many years, never changed the 5V4G rectifiers, they always tested good. 

I had no idea different rectifier tube would alter the sound, until

My friend had Kara build him a Preamp

http://www.dehavillandhifi.com/Products%20Page.htm

And she sent both new and some spare used tubes, including a spare Rectifier. We were quite surprised at the difference it made, one sounded far better than the other.

 

songbird888 OP
8 posts
 

Just to close the loop on the thread, I ended up finding an RP-7 for a good price on AudioMart so I snagged it. I still want to compare it with an LS-100 or Calypso one of these days but that will have to wait.
Good news is I can use the 12au7 tubes I bought for the RP-1 to do some tube rolling. The RP7 came equipped with the 4 stock ECC802. I purchased previously for the RP-1: Amperex Gold Lion (new), Tung Sol (new), "Mullard" (new), RCA Clear Top (NOS).

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