Is Coincident Statement Phono pre-amp an overkill

What you don't realize is that the EAR could actually have been a great band-aid for ALON's system at the show. ALON speakers are on the very forward and brighter side. Placing the EAR in that system which is on the warmer side probably helped. I would rather start with less of a band-aid and more of a neutral piece.

Fair comment. The Stereophile review certainly points out the weaknesses of the phono stage. For instance: "The amplifier's overall dark perspective reflected very laid-back extreme high frequencies and an overly round midbass".

I did not mean to make it a battle between the EAR and the Coincident. I am not stupid. But I do think in the context of the original poster's system $1000 is about the right expenditure at this stage. Perhaps there are much better choices than the EAR around that price point.

Regards,

Hi Metralla,
"Hey all in fun", of course!
Coincident phono = a prime Labron James.
EAR= an aging Kevin Garnett.
Charles,

Let's say the OP buys the Coincident phono preamp. Based upon the go for the best and only purchase once philosophy, what phono cartridge would you recommend?

Good question Onhwy61, but for me more difficult to answer. Phono stages are a fundamental component and a great one has universal appeal and function in many settings. Cartridges are more varied and personal in that they all have an "individual signature" no matter how good they are. So this will really depend on Essrand's taste and overall sonic goal for his system IMHO. Essrand what is your musical/sonic target when all is said and done?
Charles,