2. amps-preamps
  3. 1300912540

need advice for budget preamp for Rega p3-24...

Seeking advice regarding a budget (under $400, really; used or new) phono preamp for the following basic set-up:
Rega p3-24 turntable
Linn Classik integrated amp or Cambridge Audio 650 amp
Vienna Acoustics speakers (have Mozart Grand, and Haydn Grand)
audioquest cables

for analog-time, I'm all about acoustic jazz, esp piano and drums, and also some 70s rock. Play at lower volume.

I'm looking at, I guess:
Rega fono mini
Rega fono (non-mini; next step up)
Bellari v 129-30
Cambridge Audio 540p or 640p
and what else, in this meager price range?

I'd LOVE to have a $1000 or $4000 phono preamp, but that is not in the budget whatsoever and as a teacher, I don't get bonuses. Basically I want smoothness, warmth, soundstage, and darkness (duh).
paanders
paanders OP
43 posts
 
Thanks, folks.

So I've been researching all these suggestions--up to 14 now!

Unfortunately, the chance to audition and compare them is negligible where I live. How frustrating. So I read up on these little boxes.

I know grade inflation well as a teacher, but, wow, the reviews for most of these (it seems) take place around Lake Woe-be-gone, where all the phono stages are above average (at least). I don't want to get more phono stage than my rig can audibly show off. But oh man I want to play those Lester Bowie records...
mechans
3,048 posts
 
Strong second for the Graham Slee Amp 2!
czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,752 posts
 
I would look for an older PV series conrad johnson.

Chuck
swanny76109
382 posts
 
I saw a demo PS GCPH on Music Direct on clearance for a great price--plus you would get the warranty. I love mine.
learsfool
1,215 posts
 
I use the Bellari with my P5, and that is a good combo. However, the only other one I have had in my system was the Project Tube Box SE, which was nowhere near as good, especially for full scale orchestra/opera.
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