Io

About the Io

The Aesthetix Io is an all-tube phono stage suitable for the most demanding cartridges including low-output moving coils. It employs a proprietary differential circuitry design that achieves high gain with extremely low noise and zero feedback. The unit features a separate vacuum tube regulated power supply chassis to eliminate transformer noise, utilizing 16 tubes in the amplification and output stages and 8 tubes in the power supply. It offers flexible user-selectable loading from 47K ohms down to 10 ohms and a maximum gain of 80dB, internally selectable down to 56dB. Inputs include one phono input with RCA and XLR jacks, and optionally a line level balanced input with volume control. Outputs include two sets of RCA (single-ended) and XLR (balanced) per channel. An optional innovative mechanically switched discrete resistor volume control with 46 positions per channel using Roederstein resistors is available. The Eclipse Edition enhances sound quality with Peter Moncrief Stealth Capacitors and improved chassis construction. The phono stage contains three main amplification sections and an output buffer, with a purely passive RIAA filter using high-grade capacitors and non-inductive resistors. The power supply uses high voltage insulated transformers with damping materials and custom Wima bypass capacitors. The Signature and Eclipse versions include custom Teflon coupling capacitors and Cardas Teflon coated wiring for superior sonic purity, naturalness, and transparency. Physical dimensions vary slightly by version, with the main unit approximately 5.5" high, 17.5-19" wide, and 18.5" deep including jacks. Power consumption is 350 watts.