Calypso

About the Calypso

The Aesthetix Calypso is a high-quality all-tube linestage preamplifier featuring fully balanced differential circuitry from input to output, including internal balancing of single-ended inputs for common mode signal rejection and cleaner sound. It uses zero feedback and a discrete switched resistor volume control with 88 one-decibel steps to maximize resolution at any listening level. The unit supports multiple inputs and outputs, including 5 line RCA or XLR (balanced) inputs plus 1 tape input, and 2 RCA (single-ended) and XLR (balanced) outputs plus 1 tape RCA output. It includes front panel controls for main input, tape input select, volume, balance, phase, mute, display, and bypass, as well as a full-function remote control. The Calypso is available in three versions: Standard, Signature, and Eclipse, with the Signature and Eclipse versions featuring upgraded coupling capacitors and other enhancements for improved performance. The chassis is made of acoustically inert aluminum, available in black or silver finish. It is designed for both audio and home cinema use, with a bypass mode for home theatre processor throughput and absolute phase selection. The preamplifier consumes 20 watts in standby and 60 watts active, weighs about 18.1 kg (40 lbs), and measures approximately 457 mm wide, 111 mm high, and 457 mm deep. It comes with a 3-year non-transferable warranty.