Need Help Choosing a Tube Preamp for a Classe Amp

Ha, I am looking to upgrade my preamp for the Classe CA2200 as well. I think that this is a wonderful amp and really deserves a really nice pre-amp. I auditioned the VTL 6.5 and it was magical, huge soundstage, helped better define the base and brought a bigger three dementional sound to my system. The only thing that I didn't like was the price of the 6.5. I also listened to the 5.5, and really liked it but it was not much different from my Belles 21A with Auricaps and NOS tubes. As I am pretty happy with the belles for now I may wait for the Next Gen 5.5 to come out, though initial reports at shows suggest it is not quiet the 6.5. I have also considered an Aesthetix Janus signature as a full function pre-amp.

I've been considering the Aesthetix Calypso, but there have been a number posts about tube rush issues, months of tube rolling to find the right combo and relatively short tube life. But this might not reflect the majority experience.

I have a Calypso. They ship it set to the highest gain setting which is to high for most systems. That's why there are reports of tube rush. To change the gain setting you just have to move some jumpers inside. Also the stock tubes tend to go noisy pretty quick unless you get lucky and receive a good set. I Switched to NOS and haven't had any problems at all. I've had these for almost 3 years. I listen for about 2 to 3 hours a day. So that's at least 2,100 hours and counting. I recently bought a new set to have a back up. I put these in and there wasn't much difference in the sound so I put the old ones back in.

Not sure if it's the right fit for your system but it definitely is worth a listen.

The info on the Calypso if very helpful. Thanks.
If you don't mind me asking, how pricey are the NOS tubes and how challenging is moving the jumpers?

How about the First Sound Presence or Wyetech Opal? Is a phono stage a necessity?