Aesthetix + AtmaSphere

change the tube
use the Model 7 Vandy filters vs the internal Aesthetix filter
upgrade to the Signature Caps or Eclipse

but yes Raplhs amps are special 2

or for $15 K you could get Vandersteen amplifiers....

I’m using the M5 HP filters.  Tried both ways.  I think you’re local, maybe just need to come over for an education;)

@OP, 
I think you should PM John Rutan (audioconnection).
He sells Aesthetix and Vandy and would have the most accurate info.

I have been using Atma MA-1's and an MP-3 with my Treo's for the past year. I just switched over to an Ayre KX-R (non Twenty), and I have to say I am impressed. I then switched out the Atma to the Ayre MX-R (non Twenty also), and think the Atma's might just be a better pairing.
Now, in the interest of fairness, I need to get a MP-1 to see how far this baby can go.😎

Bob

I have an Aesthetix DAC and boy do tubes matter, Glen at Aesthetix sends tube rollers to Andy at Vintage Tube services in Michigan, mention the missing midrange magic for sure in talking w him.

You are welcome to stop by, I have the Model 7 amps which have a built in hi-pass filter and 128 dbs, so not exactly a fair fight...

MP-1 is much better compared to MP-3, so maybe you should go for MP-1. I am impressed with it. 

twodolphins... for sure the mp-1 is in a different league.  Another vote for the mp-1 mk3.3.  To me it’s one of the most versatile, an all around preamp in one package.  

Big Boltz  
What are your dip switch XLR filters set to?  Cheers JohnnyR

@twodophins, @zipost ,
Yes, I was on the phone with Ralph and his assistant a few times, and they agreed the MP-1 is the way to go.

Bob

fyi...something to consider; the Mp1 can only be run in balanced configuration No Expections!

@audioconnection hey John, I can’t remember off the top of my head, but I went with your recommendation and verified with volt meter

The MP1 is out of range for me financially, but I’m sure it’s amazing.  The MP3 was great.  I’m wondering if anyone has tried a Calypso with M60s

fyi...something to consider; the Mp1 can only be run in balanced configuration No Expections!

This statement isn't entirely true. We can outfit the MP-1 and MP-3 with additional RCA connections (both already have two unbalanced line level inputs).

Since phono cartridges are a naturally balanced source there doesn't seem much sense to adding RCAs to the phono input unless the preamp is a demo for a dealer. Just get the right interconnect cable and its all good. 

We've added RCA main outputs too- but the have to be switched. In a nutshell you can't have balanced and unbalanced at the same time so if RCAs are used then the XLRs become single-ended also.

You better watch out now Ralph. I got castrated in an earlier post for saying that cartridges were intrinsically balanced. I just got excoriated for saying that a stylus encounters friction in the groove and generates static electricity. 

You better watch out now Ralph. I got castrated in an earlier post for saying that cartridges were intrinsically balanced.

If that happens again, drop me a link.