which should I get Rogue RP5, Hegel P20, Belles Aria Preamp, Audible Illusion Modulus 3B

I have an AI Modulus 3A combined with a Belles SA-100. Great combination, but i don't like the stepwise volume control in the AI, especially when streaming music. Was wondering if the Belles Aria would be a good substitute. Any thoughts about that?

@lobinero  congrats on the new preamp!  Audio Connection is the best.  John is one of a kind and Jeff is great to work with.  I’m also thinking my next speaker upgrade will be Treo CTs.  I love the 3a’s right now but that Treo CT is special.  I’d love to jump to the Quattro CT, which I’ve heard a few times at AC, but just too much $, even demo or used.  Enjoy that Belles combo — I’m sure it sounds amazing, even before really burning in.

@lobinero

As a Belles Signature preamp owner, congrats!

It will get better as it breaks in too.

I have Treo’s (non-CT) I picked up for a great price, and also 2CE Sigs. The 2CE Sig is a wonderful speaker, still have mine, but keep your eyes peeled for some Treo’s. Another very different level in detail, imaging, air, and refinement.

Good luck

i had problem with capacitors making SHHH and click sounds. No more AI for me.

The Rogue with my Belles dual amp sounded too forward and edgy for me . The Belles Aria Signature was music in heavens. That proof that all equipment have their personality and needed to be paired up with an adequate unit. I was told that Ayre and Vandersteen are a match in heavens. However, that's above my budget now.. I will be upgrading my 2CE sig with AudioQuest Type 9 cables. My dream continues to be the Trios. That will have to wait too.

There is no way I would own Audible Illusions. Great sound but getting it repaired is s hassle and that's putting it mildly. 

The Rogue tubes are harsh out of the gate but really smooth out nicely to a super refined sound.  Would have been my recommendation. 

As always John Rutan and Jeff took care of me. Excellent service 

Ended without he Belles Aria Signature pre. More natural tube like sound. The Rogue did not matched well with my Virtuoso amp. Was too edgy.

nymarty     I'm working with Audio Connection. I will be in NJ next week for an audition. Moving from an Audible Illusion Mod 3A . I like tubby sound but not blinded to explore SS. 

Following.  I have a Schiit Freya + with Belles Aria monoblocks into Vandersteen 3a Signatures.  Wondering what an upgrade from the Freya would be.  I’ve heard the Belles Aria Signature integrated at Audio Connection and thought it was excellent. Have thought about pulling the trigger on Signature preamp but also interested in Rogue or LTA for tubes and Benchmark or SPL for solid state. I have a mix of balanced and single ended connections now so looking for something with both.  What dealer are you working with?

I bought the Belles Aria Signature preamp a little over a year ago, and have been very pleased. Feeding my two older Belles MB200 mono blocks to Vandersteen Treo’s.

Wonderfull combo. The Signature is very transparent and neutral, but with a very full and slightly warm sound David is quite well known for.

If the Signature is also being demoed, I would take a good listen.

I have to imagine your audition is with Johnny Rutan, whom I got my Signature through. Have fun.