2. amps-preamps
  3. 1318477517

What preamps outshine the Aesthetix Calypso?

I am interested in upgrading my preamp from the Calypso. It is a fine preamp, but I am looking for a preamp that is more dynamic and "involving". Ancillary equipment is the PS Audio Perfect Wave DAC/Transport, a VAC Phi 200 power amp, and Sehring 703 floorstanders. The VAC preamps seem a bit too expensive for my tastes. The TRL Dude is intriguing but is simply too heavy for my audio rack. So, I am considering linestages from EAR, Shindo, BAT, and possibly Audio Horizons

I know the Calypso is a fine preamp. Can anyone advise me on what preamps really outshine the Calypso? My budget is $5K or so.
mcondon
mitch4t's avatar
mitch4t
1,602 posts
 
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.....ditto the Audio Research Ref 3.
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cmo
471 posts
 
That's a tough call... The ARC might be worth a try. You might try to stretch a bit and find a Callisto used....
syntax's avatar
syntax
2,193 posts
 
Lamm LL2
batthatman
14 posts
 
I havevthe calypso and have owned the 868. Comes down to what you like. I prefered the calypso. Maybe you should take a hard look at the Romulus. It's the dac/cd player. Aesthetix is releasing it with an option pre amp volume control. Same setup as the calypso. The local dealer says it's an amazing piece. The first batch is already sold out. The next run will be available aftervthe first if the year. It will run 7 to 8k but it's a dac and has a high quality transport as well.
batthatman
14 posts
 
By the way, I'll be spending some time with it at rmaf this week.
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