I had been using a well-regarded Ag IC for my system, but had noise issues due to the very small effective AWG and my IC lengths - 3m line stage to monoblocks.
I gave PAD Musaeus Praesto Rev a try between my (1) line stage and monoblocks and (2) line stage and sub woofer amp/crossover units (I have two subs with two amp/crossover units).
Very pleased. All the advantages of the previous ICs, plus:
* little less "glare" in the highs
* bit better bass extension
* mid-range unchanged - awesome
* sound stage unchanged - fine
* a more mid-hall seat, rather than first five rows
* silence
I contacted this well-regarded, no pressure dealer, Albert Porter re: phono stage to line stage IC and bit the bullet for Venustas Praesto revision - very worthwhile.
The Venustus Praesto added to the above:
* blacker background
* richer mids
* details not for details sake, but to give an awesome sense of soundstage and venue
After I got back with Albert re: my happiness with the Venustas, he told me that the Venustas is his "entry point" for PAD. This IC really begins to let you experience what PAD can do. Of course he never told me this prior to purchase - he is low key.
Long and short, I plan to sell my two Musaeus ICs and replace with Venustas and not look back. I have joined the PAD fanatics that lurk around these parts.
