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Budget Phono preAmp

Hi All,

I am trying to make a small upgrade to my current system - for which Vinyl will be the most used source. My thinking is an affordable Phono PreAmp - but I’m trying to decide which one. I’m currently looking at either:
  • Rega Fono MM MK3
  • Moon 110LP v2
My current system is:
  • Dynaudio Special 40s
  • 30 year old Linn Axis Turntable with new Addikt MM cartridge
  • Marantz sr5014 A/V receiver
So right now it is all Moving Magnet and no need for Coil. Eventually the Linn will need to be replaced, and probably a later cartridge upgrade too, but by then I’ll have upgraded the receiver situation to either a nice integrated option or separates. Right now its most bang for the buck with a limited investment.

All thoughts warmly appreciated!
terracebk21
jp-2213
43 posts
 
Channel Island PEQ-1 is a killer little phono pre that will serve you now and as your system changes. You can add the optional power supply down the road which improves upon an already good pre

Best,
-JP
jsal3689
80 posts
 
I went the tube route and haven't looked back. This budget preamp sounds great, especially if you find some good NOS tubes. I found some RCA's at Tube Depot. https://www.crutchfield.com/S-LE3C5VZ6pyk/p_252TBBXS2B/Pro-Ject-Tube-Box-S2.html?XVINQ=GLX&awkw=...
rumblestrip's avatar
rumblestrip
47 posts
 
I have the Vista Audio Photo-2 and am very happy with it. I've loaned it out to a couple of people with $7-12K systems and they thought it performed as well as $1000-$1500 photo pre-amps they've used.
nlitworld
64 posts
 
+1 for the Project Tube Box S2. Replace the tubes with a set of Gold Lion from Upscale and you have a real decent setup on your hands. I also bought a linear power supply for it and that bumps it even better.
bstatmeister
537 posts
 
I forgot about the TCC-TC750 from phonopreamps.com (That Charles7 mentioned above). I've used one before and it is surprisingly good for the money. In fact, this may be the best bang for the buck out there at ~50 bucks
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