Californian brand Aesthetix is well-known for its ultra high-performance electronics, but this year’s Product of the Year Award goes to designer Jim White’s new entry-level Pallene preamplifier.  

“With wine it’s often true that a producer’s true talent is revealed not by his most expensive cuvees, but by what he can do with less exalted appellations,” write The Absolute Sound’s reviewers. The same argument could be made in the audio world where, with an unlimited budget for R&D, parts and finishes, one would reasonably expect “breathtaking examples of the audio arts”. But what about entry-level gear?

“Jim White and his team have excelled with the Pallene, a supremely functional hybrid preamp designed to cover any contemporary music lover’s needs,” says the magazine.

“Sonically, the Pallene makes the most of its hybrid nature. It’s tonally neutral yet offers much of the air, texture and liquidity offered by tubes. It appropriately lets the nature of each recording shine through and creates very convincing soundstages, with dynamics that are both finely shaded as well as pin-you-to-the-wall powerful”.

Aesthetix’ founder and chief designer Jim White, says, “I enjoy designing equipment at the bleeding edge, but I also derive great satisfaction out of creating products that break price/performance barriers.”

The Absolute Sound says, “Product of the Year Award? Heck, yes!”.

Discover the full range of Aesthetix electronics, from ultra high-end to entry-level, and locate your nearest specialist retailer at www.aesthetix.net

You’ll find all of the 2026 Product of the Year Award winners in the January issue of The Absolute Sound.