need info on phono pre......... CHEAP


Hi all,
I am in need of a good entry level phono stage as my pre-amp is only line level, it will be paired up with a somewhat modest table and a Clear Audio Aurum Beta S cartridge, I was looking into the Bellari tube unit, or the NAD, or used cheap options. My financial situation limits my ability to purchase moderate priced options but all the same I would hope that acceptable performance could be found without a high investment, any help would be appreciated....thanks Chad
chadnliz
The NAD PP-2 is the best of the cheapies.Add your own 24vDC 1amp regulated power supply for best performance.If you can afford more the next to consider would be either the Project SE Phono Box or the Project Tube Box.
The Parasound zPhono is very good for the money. I compared it to the (more expensive) Creek and Project offerings, and preferred the zPhono.

Michael
If you're comfortable with a soldering iron, you can build a Hagerman Bugle for about $60:

http://www.hagtech.com/bugle.html

The half-kit includes a very nice circuit board and easy instructions. I got Texas Instruments to sample me a couple different kinds of op-amps so I could experiment. It sounds great and since it's battery operated, dead silent even at 60dB. I've heard the NAD PP-2 and liked the Bugle better, especially since I can adjust the gain in small increments.
The Musical Fidelity X-LPS phono amp can be had used for $200-300. New it's $400. Why not give it a listen?
thanks alot guys, a few great ideas for me to ponder for sure...you guys always are great!