Thanx, Dougdeacon. Ths impedance issue is a concern. Using the 3 ohm tap on the MC-4 and the stock 47.7K ohm impedance of my phono stage, the load impedance would be about 53 ohms = 47,700/(30^2) - low for the UNIverse. Might not be a good fit.
I appreciate the advice and candor. My Sonic Frontiers phono stage has been completely re-built by Bill Thalmann and the EAR MC-4 is a well-regarded SUT, or at least I thought. While I am fairly pleased with the results of this combo, I will certainly consider your thoughts. My Clearaudio Stradivari was slightly less than the UNIverse, but not by much.
The Sonic Frontiers Line 3 line stage comment did surprise me a bit. I have never had anyone suggest upgrading the Line 3 unless I had $10k plus on hand. I sent it back to Chris Johnson for a comprehensive update and mod using premium parts, so we are not talking a stock, 10 year old unit. Obviously, I like the SF sound and I thought a Line 3 was a well-regarded line stage - able to hold its own with most line stages out there. My "price of admission" to a top-tier line stage was reduced by buying a cream puff unit used and using Chris to mod.
Again, I appreciate your candor.
Brent
I appreciate the advice and candor. My Sonic Frontiers phono stage has been completely re-built by Bill Thalmann and the EAR MC-4 is a well-regarded SUT, or at least I thought. While I am fairly pleased with the results of this combo, I will certainly consider your thoughts. My Clearaudio Stradivari was slightly less than the UNIverse, but not by much.
The Sonic Frontiers Line 3 line stage comment did surprise me a bit. I have never had anyone suggest upgrading the Line 3 unless I had $10k plus on hand. I sent it back to Chris Johnson for a comprehensive update and mod using premium parts, so we are not talking a stock, 10 year old unit. Obviously, I like the SF sound and I thought a Line 3 was a well-regarded line stage - able to hold its own with most line stages out there. My "price of admission" to a top-tier line stage was reduced by buying a cream puff unit used and using Chris to mod.
Again, I appreciate your candor.
Brent