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List of top phono preamps best

I know I have pounded away at this topic but i'm on a mission. I am looking for a phono preamp preferably with balanced circuit and output and want something that approaches the best. I am very fond of the sound of the ear834p which is in my system now, maybe this can offer an idea of what kind of sound I appreciate. The list I have compiled is: BOULDER (out of reach), AESTHETIX IO SIG.. (too many tubes and runs too hot), MANLEY STEELHEAD (a serious contender), LAMM LP2(another contender), PASS XONO (in the ball park), EAR 324 (another serious choice), BAT VK P10(also excellent), CONRAD JOHNSON PREMIER15, ZYX ARTISAN, AUDIO RESEARCH REF or ph?, AESTHETIX RHEA(was considering), ASR BASIS EXCLUSIVE, CARY PH301 or 302, LINN LINTO, HERRON VTPH-1, TOM EVANS THE GROOVE, ART AUDIO, WHEST PS.20. And there are more. What would be your top picks under $3000. used, preferably with balanced?
pedrillo
dmailer's avatar
dmailer
235 posts
 
I have not heard the Wavestream or Herron so cannot comment on how they may compare with the Artemis. My version of the Artemis is the PH-1. I am using external S&B transformers with nude Vishay load resistors. This setup really shines whith the ZYX Universe/ Schroeder reference combination. There is a lot of immediacy and presence with great dynamics. Much more so than the Hagerman Trumpet (with the same transformers) which was im my system previously. The take I am getting from others is that the internal step-up on the PL-1 is Ok but that there are much better transformers out there which can obviously make a huge difference in the outcome.
oshag
11 posts
 

An extraordinary design by Scott Frankland. Battery operated phono stage. Eight tubes; 4 6dJ8/6922 type, 2 12AX7 type, 2 12AU7 type. I've not heard a lot of different preamps, but I can tell you that this MFA was in a different league in terms of performance when up against an Audio Research Reference (no slouch either) in a recent listening session conducted at my friends house. This MC Reference prototype is hard-wired throughout with no circuit boards and is actually housed in a Luminescence chassis (actually two chassis). Every time I lift the lid I marvel at what can only be described as a work of art. In phono operation it is extraordinarily quiet which makes for a very low noise floor. Every aspect of performance is superb. My turntable rig is fairly modest and yet this MFA can create a very convincing impression of live music. As a certain chap named CJ would say, I didn't get where I am today without knowing a great preamp when I hear one.
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rauliruegas
13,101 posts
 
Dear Oshag: +++++ " . This MC Reference prototype is hard-wired throughout with no circuit boards and " +++++

This characteristic is not a design advantage as a fact is a severe disadvantage.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
dgad
782 posts
 
For fully balanced for even less than $3000 look at the Aqvox. Just got a rave review.
johnmilner
9 posts
 
Have to agree with the K&K Audio for $2,000. I've compared it to some of the best and come away laughing. Outstanding.
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