The P-4001 and P-4002 were the first preamplifiers in the Simaudio Celeste series. The P-4001, launched in 1993, was a simpler single chassis unit. In 1996, the "se" version of the P-4001 was introduced, featuring better internal parts matching. The P-4001 features included a pure class A, no feedback design with a separate headphone output stage, as well as six line-stage inputs, two tape monitor loops and an optional RIAA phono section (MM or MC).
 
The P-4002, introduced in 1996, was a more advanced design, also operating in pure Class A with no feedback, using balanced ciruitry, an outboard power supply, six line-stage inputs (five single-ended & one balanced), two tape monitor loops and an optional external RIAA phono section (MM and MC) in a matching chassis.
 
 

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Celeste P-5002 front view

Celeste P-5002 PS front view

 
The P-5002 Celeste reference level preamp featured many of the characteristics later found in our MOON P-5 preamplifier, including a very short signal path, a discrete shunt-to-ground gain stage, fully balanced dual-mono circuitry and a "home-theater ready" input which bypasses the gain section.
 
Also included was an over-sized outboard power supply (pictured to the right and bottom) which used a pair of XLR connectors to drive the separate analog and digital controller circuitry, thus allowing for a very low noise floor and excellent transparency.
 

Celeste P-5002 rear view

Celeste P-5002 P/S rear view

Celeste P-5002 inside view

Celeste P-5002 P/S inside view

This P-5003 preamplifier represented great value, offering 8 line-level inputs, a tape monitor loop, a headphone output and both single-ended (RCA) & balanced (XLR) outputs. Originally introduced as a in the Celeste series in 1996, the P-5003 was very briefly part of the MOON series in early 2000.
 

Celeste P-5003 front view

Celeste P-5003 rear view