I remain as impressed with the Aesthetix Mimas integrated amp today as I was when I reviewed it back in July of last year. It left a lasting impression.
Here’s part of that impression from my review:
When paired with the DeVore O/96 (review), the Mimas quickly and not so quietly announced some of its standout skills that include excellent bass (control and performance), superb resolution that is at once fine-grained and natural sounding, and a sound image as big and clearly defined as the recording allows, which on some recordings is crazy, scary big.
For Axpona 2026, the Aesthetix Audio Pallene Line Stage and Dione Power Amplifier joined forces to excite a pair of Vandersteen Treo CT loudspeakers to sing with a clear and supremely natural voice. Those two ‘tables allowed for DJ-style uninterrupted LP play, something I appreciated as this system inspired more.
The System
Vandersteen Treo CT Loudspeakers: $11,095/pair
Aesthetix Audio Pallene Line Stage: $7000
Aesthetix Audio Rhea Signature Phono Stage: $12,000
Aesthetix Audio Dione Power Amplifier: $8000
Connected Fidelity Six Star AC Distribution Block: $950
Connected Fidelity RF Blocker Gold: $500/pair
Cables from Sierra Sound (by Cardas) and Cardas
Butcher Block Acoustics rigidrack 3 Shelf Rack: $1800
Turntable 1
AMG Giro MK II Wood Turntable w/AMG 9WT Tonearm: $19,300
AMG 12v Linear Power Supply Upgrade: $1200
Benz Micro Zebra L Woodbody Cartridge: $2500
ViV Laboratory Rigid Float 9ha Tonearm: $4500
Sierra Sound NAB-1 Tonearm Platform: $500
Benz Micro ACE Mono Cartridge: $1200
Turntable 2
AMG Viella Turntable w/12JT Turbo Tonearm: $26,800
Benz Micro SLR Gullwing Cartridge: $4200
AMG Fortissimo Arm Base: $3360
Sorane SA-1.2 Tonearm: $2000
Ortofon SPU Classic Cartridge: $1415