The SA-5000 has one of the best phono stage out there for a full function preamp. It has the buffer stage which made it sound more dynamic for the low output MCs.
I didn't go with Mike Elliott mod ( I did my own) but a friend of my did.
Compare the two:
Mike Elliott version is quiet and better seperation ( even more 3-D ) than the original version.
My version is more liquid and full and less analytical than Mike's upgrade.
However, being different sonic character, I would think either one has the character of it is own.
Both are great sweet sound. Even the original stock has good sonic character.
In any case, the 3 units me and my friends had NEVER had any issues. They are one of the quietest preamp out there.
If you plan any upgrade, please replace the volume control. The old one might make noise when you adjust the volume.
Mike will be happy to answer your questions.
You can also check audioreview from other folks who had the upgrade from Mike.
It is a keeper for me.
After tryout over 20 different brand/type of 6DJ8/6922 family, I use only NOS tubes. Siemens 7308 for the phono and Amperex D-getter 6DJ8 ( earlier type ) for the line stage. Pinch Waisted 6DJ8 Amperex are the best line stage tube but I only have a NOS pair and you can't get them any more even if you're looking to pay over $100 per tube.
I didn't go with Mike Elliott mod ( I did my own) but a friend of my did.
Compare the two:
Mike Elliott version is quiet and better seperation ( even more 3-D ) than the original version.
My version is more liquid and full and less analytical than Mike's upgrade.
However, being different sonic character, I would think either one has the character of it is own.
Both are great sweet sound. Even the original stock has good sonic character.
In any case, the 3 units me and my friends had NEVER had any issues. They are one of the quietest preamp out there.
If you plan any upgrade, please replace the volume control. The old one might make noise when you adjust the volume.
Mike will be happy to answer your questions.
You can also check audioreview from other folks who had the upgrade from Mike.
It is a keeper for me.
After tryout over 20 different brand/type of 6DJ8/6922 family, I use only NOS tubes. Siemens 7308 for the phono and Amperex D-getter 6DJ8 ( earlier type ) for the line stage. Pinch Waisted 6DJ8 Amperex are the best line stage tube but I only have a NOS pair and you can't get them any more even if you're looking to pay over $100 per tube.