2. amps-preamps
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Seeking Suggestions on Preamp Upgrade (CJ, Aesthetix, EAR)

I have about $5,000 budget to upgrade a preamp.  I am using Luxman 550 integrated as a preamp currently, it sounds a bit too lean to me.  Rest of the system are Pass XA30.5, Dynaudio Contour 3.4, Marantz reference SACD.  I am thinking CJ CT5/ET5, CJ ACT2, Aesthetix Calypiso, EAR 868, or Zesto Leto.  Thank you very much!

davidhe19audio

Showing 3 responses by jafant

jafant
18,946 posts
 
Excellent exchange of info here guys.  Happy Listening!
jafant
18,946 posts
 
2nd note;

Pass Labs and Aesthetix are sonic matches too. Read much about this pairing. Not had an actual demo together. 
jafant
18,946 posts
 
davidhe19audio-

Conrad Johnson & Pass Labs are a sonic match. The Act2 Series2 is very sweet. Additionally, I have heard the ET-3SE-very sweet as well.

I have always wanted to demo an ART(2/3) and ET-5. It is my short -list.
I have not auditioned any CJ pre-amp w/ Pass Labs, only read about their inherent synergy.

Keep me posted, mention your dealers/retailers all.
Happy Listening!
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