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 1 response by tlalpan14600

Hi David,
I have been using the Aesthetix Calypso with Genelex Gold Lion tubes that I got from Kevin Deal of Upscale Audio. A great upgrade from the original stock tubes. The preamp has worked flawlessly from the time I purchased it. Its a neutral sounding  pre , highly musical and bullet proof.  Its a match made in heaven with my Jadis. I would highly recommend the Aesthetix Calypso ( with the tube upgrade, or you can also get NOS Telefunken, albeit , a little more expensive tubes  & get an even better sound   sound )