2. amps-preamps
  3. 1080414968

Help: my phono preamp is blowing away my linestage

I recently was fortunate enough to acquire an Aesthetix Io Signature phono stage that has taken my system to a whole new level. But now I fear that my old Rogue 99 Magnum linestage is holding back the full capabilities of the Io.

I can't afford to buy an Aesthetix Callisto or Calypso, and indeed I spend most of my time listening to vinyl (but perhaps I'd listen to more CDs if I had a better linestage).

I figure I can spend up to about $2500 on a better linestage. Can I improve on the Rogue for this sum?

Patrick
patrickamory

Showing 7 responses by patrickamory

patrickamory OP
193 posts
 
I've been considering the Bent Audio Noh passive volume control (based on S&B TX-102 transformers), but I've heard that passives are much less dynamic than active preamps. Also I do want to rediscover my CDs again, and I'm thinking a passive might be OK with the Io but not so great directly from my CDP.
patrickamory OP
193 posts
 
Plato: Parasound, huh? No 2000s available right now, but I see the PLD-1500, also a John Curl design. Is it comparable?

Patrick
patrickamory OP
193 posts
 
Hi denf: not from preamp manufacturers (so far as I'm aware!) but from discussions here and at AA. It seems that many people try out a good passive like the Bent, initially like it, and then switch to an active such as an Audion.

My understanding is that synergy is particularly important for passives - source output impedance, amp input impedance, cable length and other variables - perhaps this is why some people are down on them. But I do sense a consensus that passives inject incredible transparency into the system, which initially pleases new adopters, but over the long term subtract a certain drive or PRAT from the music.

The Placette would drive me crazy because I demand a manual rotary volume control, by the way...

Patrick
patrickamory OP
193 posts
 
Dweller: re: the Janus, I've heard the Io Sig is miles better than the Rhea, which is the phono section of the Janus... I don't want to give up what I've already got.

Swampwalker: I've heard great things about Supratek, but more about their phono stages than their linestages...
patrickamory OP
193 posts
 
Hi Rushton,

Yes I have been considering this. It's probably the right step. I'm not so into no-remote control and 2 separate volume controls, but it's probably worth the added transparency.

How do you find the quality of the line level?

Patrick
patrickamory OP
193 posts
 
Hi Rushton,

Yes that does help. I think my mind's made up -- I need to go with the Aesthetix volume control upgrade. Now to plan my next vacation so I can coordinate the upgrade with my absence from the listening room.

Patrick
patrickamory OP
193 posts
 
Bwhite, thanks for the advice. So you're using the Io Sig with volume control, direct to your amp?
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