limniscate, what amp are you using?
Aesthetix vs ARC
I have a general question for those familiar with the two companies listed above. I'm currently using an Aesthetix Calypso which I consider a top tier preamp. Recently I've been thinking about trying an ARC reference preamp. To be more specific a reference 5 or 5se. I expect the ARC 5SE to rate higher but i'm not sure how their sound signature compares to the Calypso. Please don't ask what is that I don't like about the Calypso or how much do I have to spend, etc. I just want to know the sonic signature of the Ref 5se compared to the Calypso. I do change equipment from time to time like everyone else.
Showing 3 responses by tomcy6
Actually, The correct comparison would be the Aesthetix Callisto Signature or Eclipse to the ARC Ref 5se, not the Calypso. Here’s a link to a comparison of the Calypso to the Callisto: https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/review-aesthetix-callisto-signature-tube-preamp The ARC uses the 6H30 tube. If you like that tube then ARC might be right for you. You can’t change it for anything else, though. The Callisto has a bunch of tubes that you can roll to tune the sound to your taste, maybe too many tubes for many people. |
The Aesthetix Callisto Signature retails for $13,000 including a $2,000 remote control. $11,000 without remote. The ARC Ref 6 retails for $14,000. The ARC Ref 10 retails for $30,000. Ultimately, what’s important is the sound, as sfall states. However, the sound quality we get is usually limited by the amount of money we can afford to spend. I know that a cheaper system can sound better than a more expensive one, but if one carefully puts his system together, the more expensive one should sound better. I know that my system’s sound has improved as I have bought more expensive components. How many boxes the component consists of is usually not a big factor in what we buy. So I think that most people shopping for a preamp would compare the Callisto to the Ref 6 and feel that the Ref 10 is out of their price range. However, if $16,000 is chump change to you, you might compare the Callisto to the Ref 10. |