2. amps-preamps
  3. 159870-20688

Which Preamp.

Hi Guys, I am thinking of getting a new Preamp and torn between two selection. One is Aesthetix Calypso and another Supratek Cabernet. Both are highly regarded preamps. Which one is better? Currently I am using Eastern Electric Avant and also have Audible illusion L2B. My equipment is Aesthetix Rhea, Parasound A21 and Nordost tyr and Valkyrja cables. Thanks.
couger4u
8 responses Add your response
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
you know the answer

there is only one way to really know

good luck
couger4u OP
62 posts
 
If I could afford both preamps I would know but I am not able to so I am asking the community if anyone has heard both or to give me salient points of how they sound.  
knotscott
921 posts
 
I think you'd be remiss if you didn't give the Convergent preamp a good long listen....it's the real deal.  
three_easy_payments's avatar
three_easy_payments
2,097 posts
 
How much gain does your Parasound produce? I ask because the Calypso gain is pretty jacked up by most standards: 23 dB single ended and 29 dB balanced. 
fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,598 posts
 
knotltscott

+1 on Ken Stevens and CAT
It can get you to hear stuff you never heard before.
In a hotel room.
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,769 posts
 
You have the Rhea. Calypso makes sense.
hilde45's avatar
hilde45
4,974 posts
 
I know you've posted a choice between two but I'll just mention that when I asked this question a while back, many suggested another in your price range: http://www.dehavillandhifi.com/UltraVerve-Preamplifier.htm

I've never heard it but there was clamorous and unanimous applause for this preamp. FWIW.
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,318 posts
 
We can't tell you.
There are really only two factors:
its synergy with other components in your system
your preference/how it sounds to you in your system.
Doubtless either would be great; if you want to be sure, you're going to have to find a way of auditioning them at home.
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