Long shot: has anyone heard an Aesthetix Calypso?

[Diapason]

All true. When it comes to the ML range, I never really liked the ones with the integrated subs as much, although as is always the case with panel speakers, unless you've sat in exactly the right position you haven't really heard them. So I probably haven't really heard them.

In truth, I'm so happy with the sound at home now that I'm once again eyeing the Quads and wondering if they're ever going to see any action...

[tony]

Another Graaf appears on wigwam within a week. Feast or famine. Yours must be nearly landed Simon?

[Diapason]

Another Graaf appears on wigwam within a week. Feast or famine. Yours must be nearly landed Simon?

Landed safe and sound last week, Tony. Here's a crap pic of it sitting in our kitchen:



(Check out that composition, lighting, colour balance, pin-sharp focus. You too could achieve these effects with a minimum of effort. I think we can all agree that the box of baby formula in the background makes the picture.)

I haven't posted about it yet because I was trying to get a handle on its abilities. To be honest, initial impressions are a bit mixed, not because it isn't good (it quite obviously is) but more because I'm not sure it's doing what I want a preamp to do. Basically, it takes the midrange and puts it straight into the room, and singers sound projected far in front of the speakers. The only thing is, I prefer a drier, slightly more distant approach, so I'm not sure this is for me. On some recordings it's very compelling, on others I find myself wondering.

Now, at the risk of angering the tube rolling gods, it could be that I don't like the valves that are in there. The amp was apparently revalved about 6 months ago, and there are (by all accounts good) Brimar valves doing the honours now. I know those UK valves have a reputation for midrange above all else, so maybe a more linear type of valve will bring nirvana? Based on recent findings when I replaced the 6922s in my monoblocks, tube choice can certainly make a difference to these Graafs. In any case, I'll give it a go and if it doesn't work out I'll try to move it on. Yer man on the 'wam seemed to sell his in a matter of seconds, so hopefully it shouldn't be too difficult. In the right system (and with the right ears) I suspect it could be magical.

[tony]

Eh that sounds wonderful Simon! Why would you be getting rid of that? I see it is the same chassis as the GM50 integrated. Give it a bit of time.

[Fran]

You better finish making those bottles too.......

[Diapason]

You better finish making those bottles too.......

LOL, they should be cool enough by now alright!