The CallistoLine Stage
optimises both single-ended (RCA) and balanced (XLR) inputs and
outputs. The Callisto audio chassis contains one main amplification
section and an output buffer section.The first section is a medium
gain, low noise, zero feedback (or 6 dB feedback from single ended
sources) differential amplifier composed of a 6922 tube and a 12AX7
tube. Lastly, the signal is buffered and sent to the output jacks in
balanced form.
Achieving the perfect balance of sonic attributes, the Aesthetix Callisto and Io
imbue the music with breathtaking beauty. The Callisto Line Stage and
Io Phono Stage can be used together as a complete pre-amplifier system
or separately in line-level only systems, add-on phono, or Io with
volume controls as a dedicated phono preamplifier. The Aesthetix Power Supply
is the size of a power amplifier. Identical for all Aesthetix audio
chassis, each Callisto or Io requires a dedicated Power Supply.
Separate umbilical cables feed each channel of the dual mono audio
chassis. The Power Supply has two main sections, the heater supply and
the primary plus and minus supplies. At the heart of the heater supply
is its massive, low flux, 210 VA power transformer which has fourteen
separate secondary windings that are individually regulated and supply
both the Power Supply and main unit tubes. The primary high voltage
supply is composed of a similar massive 170 VA transformer which feeds
a common-mode choke input filtering network and then high current
vacuum tube regulators (one EL/34/6CA7, three 12AX7 tubes per
regulator). Each regulator is capable of supplying 600 volts at 100mA.
There ar two such regulators in the Power Supply. Each separate
amplification or buffer stage has its own power supply filtering
network and regulated heater supply to isolate individual sections and
prevent interaction.
Each
Aesthetix unit is hand built. All units undergo a rigorous test
procedure, which includes auditioning in a high quality audio system.