I happily put my X-2 pre-amp made by Charlie (see my review at http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/frr.pl?rprea&1189119648&read&3&4& that I posted under "Product Review" category for pre-amps)
for a friendly contest with your current or new Aesthetix pre-amp.
We share this great hobby in which friendly and positive contests are fun provided they are done in good spirit. I am all for that. For me it is not a matter of ego or trying to prove "mine is better". But the X-2 beat Lamm L2 easily and since the Aesthetix is known to be great, I am very curious who these two pre-amps will compare. You do not live far from me, so you are welcome to come and bring your Aesthetix with you. Alternatively, I can bring mine.