Jeff aka A/V Solutions system

7y2e3yqe.jpg


CALLISTO TUBE LINESTAGE

Callisto is an all-tube linestage suitable for the most demanding audio systems and listeners. Fully balanced circuitry from input to output, including internal balancing of single-ended inputs, results in common mode signal rejection and cleaner sound. The innovative discrete switched resistor volume control maximizes resolution at any listening level. A separate power supply chassis removes any possibility of transformer noise corrupting the delicate audio circuitry. Peter Moncrief Stealth Capacitors are used in the Eclipse Edition for unparalleled sound quality.

• Fully balanced differential circuitry with ability to internally balance a single-ended input signal.
• Innovative and unique mechanically switched discrete resistor volume control with 46 positions using Roederstein resistors.
• Separate volume controls and input selectors for each channel.
• All tube amplification and output (8 tubes total).
• Separate vacuum tube regulated power supply utilizing 8 tubes.
• Two sets of XLR and two sets of RCA outputs per channel.
• Six inputs: First two single-ended (rca) or balanced (XLR); remaining four single-ended (rca) only.

Callisto is available in three versions: Mk II, Signature and Eclipse.

The Mk II version uses high-grade Rel-Cap polypropylene coupling capacitors. The Signature version uses exotic and expensive coupling capacitors and other critical parts to bring the performance to a higher level. Eclipse is the ultimate realization of the true capabilities of the Callisto, incorporating constrained-layer damped machined aluminum panels and Peter Moncrief's Stealth Capacitors. All versions of Callisto can be factory upgraded to Signature or Eclipse.

Callisto Options and Upgrades

• Eclipse Version Detail
• Signature Version Detail
• Mk II Version Detail
• Callisto comes with a single power supply standard, or optionally a second power supply may be added for true dual-mono. Power Supply Detail
• Remote control is optional with the Callisto. Adding the system allows remote adjustment for volume and muting, and optionally phase. The remote system uses motors and pulleys to rotate the volume controls and has a completely isolated electrical system. It may be added to any version of Callisto. Remote Control Details
• Callisto Mk II and Signature available with black or silver faceplate.
• Callisto Eclipse may be ordered with custom finishes - Design your own Callisto Eclipse.

Reviews & Accolades


"simply phenomenal inner detail, vast soundstaging, and a dynamic and harmonic bloom that seems to bring every kind of music to vivid life"

The Absolute Sound Golden Ear Award (2003): CALLISTO SIGNATURE linestage and IO SIGNATURE phono stage

"The Callisto is as fast, neutral, dynamic and authoritative as any preamp I've ever heard, solid-state or not... entirely worthy of the high esteem in which it's been held..." -Shane Buettner

Audio Perfectionist Journal (2007): CALLISTO linestage
"In practice, (the remote) is a marvel to use and makes listening to music a joy." -Albert Porter

Positive-Feedback.com (2006): CALLISTO linestage with remote, read review
"stunning dynamics, remarkable transparency, and a life-like recreation of space and volume... jaw-droppingly three-dimensional" -Wayne Garcia

The Absolute Sound (2002): CALLISTO linestage "Centerstage" and "Harry Pearson's Workshop" feature


Specifications

Inputs: Six inputs: First two single-ended (rca) or balanced (XLR); remaining four single-ended (rca) only
Outputs: 2 RCA (SE) and XLR (balanced), 1 tape RCA
Line level gain: 23 dB single ended (SE), in/out, and 29 dB balanced/out
Volume control: switched resistor network volume control with 46 steps
Front panel controls: Left and right input select, left and right volume
Remote controls(optional): Volume, mute, balance, phase (option)
Frequency response: +- 0.25 dB, 20 Hz - 20 Khz
Signal to noise: measured at 70 dB minimum, A-weighted (ref 1 mv input, 75 dB gain setting)
Line input impedence: 100K ohms SE, 200K ohms balanced
Output impedence: 1K ohms SE, 600 ohms balanced
Recommended amplifier load: 10K ohms or greater (SE), 20K ohms or greater (Balanced)
Tubes, each channel: (line section) V1 (6922), V2 (12AX7), V3 (6922), V4 (6SN7)
Power consumption: 300 watts

Physical dimensions:
Main unit, MkII or Signature: 5 5/8" high, 19" wide, 18" deep including jacks
Main unit, Eclipse: 5 1/2" high, 17 1/2" wide, 18" deep including jacks
Power supply, MkII or Signature: 5 5/8" high, 19" wide, " deep including jacks
Power supply, Eclipse: 5 5/8" high, 17 1/2" wide, 18 1/4" deep including jacks

Shipping weights:
Main unit, MkII or Signature: 42 Lbs
Main unit, Eclipse: 47 Lbs
Power supply, MkII or Signature: 50 Lbs
Power supply, Eclipse: 55 Lbs

Specifications subject to improvement or change without notice.

Technical Documents

Callisto Owner's Manual
Callisto Remote Control Owner's Manual
Callisto Tube Placement
Callisto Important Notice
 
Jeff,

Very nice acquisition! Can't wait to hear your impressions on Callisto, as an IO owner I always wondered what the team would sound like. What are you getting the Eclipse, Sig orMk II? Single or dual power supply?

Again congrats
 
RedSectorA said:
Jeff,

Very nice acquisition! Can't wait to hear your impressions on Callisto, as an IO owner I always wondered what the team would sound like. What are you getting the Eclipse, Sig orMk II? Single or dual power supply?

Again congrats
Click to expand...

I went with the Eclipse, single power supply and outboard remote/volume control......I was tossing back and fourth going the dual power supplies but I will leave that for another day plus this gives me more breathing room ($$$) for the IO Eclipse which hopefully follows shortly after :)
 
congrats Jeff, I am always curious as to the sonic and engineering bias of 2 chassis preamp designs where the more often decided outboard power supply is usually solid state. However great companies like Zanden and now Aesthetix use a tube based separate chassis power supply. I wonder which makes more sense engineering wise. Enjoy your new toy.

Nick
 
veindoc said:
congrats Jeff, I am always curious as to the sonic and engineering bias of 2 chassis preamp designs where the more often decided outboard power supply is usually solid state. However great companies like Zanden and now Aesthetix use a tube based separate chassis power supply. I wonder which makes more sense engineering wise. Enjoy your new toy.

Nick
Click to expand...

Thanks Nick.....not sure why the tube power supply but like it. Its been mentioned to check out rolling the EL34 & 6CA7 in the power supply if one wishes to change things up a bit. I like outboard volume control, keeping as much of that circuitry away from the analog circuitry is a nice touch.
 
A/V Solutions said:
I went with the Eclipse, single power supply and outboard remote/volume control......I was tossing back and fourth going the dual power supplies but I will leave that for another day plus this gives me more breathing room ($$$) for the IO Eclipse which hopefully follows shortly after :)
Click to expand...

Can't wait for your review on Callisto Eclipse, if Callisto is anything like Io the second power supply adds resolve to the bass and a little more presence.

IO is a logical choice after Callisto, if you haven't compared IO to Rhea you might be in for a very pleasant surprise :audiophile: . And from what I heard the Eclipse is that much better. Someday I will have mine upgraded to Partial Eclipse.

Again congrats!
 
Oh and by the way, when you listen to Callisto and IO at the same time shut down your heating system, trust me you won't need it :D
 
I had originally went with the single power supply but decided to go the whole nine yards and added the second power supply :)
 
A/V Solutions said:
Ha...between the Callisto / IO and the dual power supplies for both that's 40 tubes :cool:
Click to expand...

IO takes 20 tubes in the dual power supply and 16 tubes in the phono stage for a total of 36. Assuming the same for Callisto you will have a total of 72 tubes to get these two baby going. You will be listening to music in a bathing suit in the dead of winter :D!
 
RedSectorA said:
IO takes 20 tubes in the dual power supply and 16 tubes in the phono stage for a total of 36. Assuming the same for Callisto you will have a total of 72 tubes to get these two baby going. You will be listening to music in a bathing suit in the dead of winter :D!
Click to expand...

I was looking again at the spec

IO - 16 tubes
IO power supply - 4 tubes x two regulators = 8 per power supply x two power supply = 16 tubes

Callisto - 8 tubes
Callisto power supply - 4 tubes x two regulators = 8 per power supply x two power supply = 16 tubes

so that's 56 tubes I think.....will have to confirm :) anyway that's a boat load for two pieces of gear!

I just counted all the gear using tubes in the listening room and with the Callisto / IO and other gear there is 141 tubes :disbelief::disbelief:
 
A/V Solutions said:
I was looking again at the spec

IO - 16 tubes
IO power supply - 4 tubes x two regulators = 8 per power supply x two power supply = 16 tubes

Callisto - 8 tubes
Callisto power supply - 4 tubes x two regulators = 8 per power supply x two power supply = 16 tubes

so that's 56 tubes I think.....will have to confirm :) anyway that's a boat load for two pieces of gear!

I just counted all the gear using tubes in the listening room and with the Callisto / IO and other gear there is 141 tubes :disbelief::disbelief:
Click to expand...

You're right, IO takes 32 tubes and not 36 as previously mentioned. I should open the power supply more often I guess :rolleyes:. I had 56 tubes there for a while including a line stage and power amp, was too much for my little brain to get around so I went SS on the amp.

Love the glow of tubes though:cool:
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top