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Audio Research Ph8 compared to Reference phono 2

Hi folks!
Been seriously thinking about Ph8 can´t afford Reference phono2. Difference I read is larger gain, less noise, 3 different recording standards, balanced + single ended mode.
But is the sound much different, anybody with experience? I´ll gladly appreciate your thoughts/impression.

Many Thanks!
clabe
tsloan
25 posts
 
and unlike the PH8, all those before it - no stereo/mono switch :(
tsloan
25 posts
 
I used to own a PH3SE, PH5, PH7 and now have the PH8.
I have never heard the Ref 2 SE so I can not compare the two.
The Ref 2 SE is twice the price of the PH8 and you are getting all the features Clabe mentioned: balanced outputs, two inputs and three different recording standards. Gone is the stereo/mono switch.
I love the PH8 - I don't need any of the added features so I am thrilled with what I have.
Does the Ref 2 SE sound better? I have no idea - I've never compared the two and I need my mono switch so I'm not interested. I'd rather spend the thousands of dollars more the Ref 2 SE costs on a cartridge.
oregonpapa's avatar
oregonpapa
4,867 posts
 
Get the PH-8 and put a Synergistic Research Black fuse in it. Once the fuse is broken in ... Nirvana.   
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