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  3. 141459-46

Phone Pre (new or used) Under $1000 to replace Dynavector P-75

I have a Technics GR1200 with a Dynavector 20x2L cart going to a Dynavector P-75 phono pre - Synergistic Combo for sure.  I am considering upgrading the phono stage, but I'd like to keep it to around a $1k.  MM or MC could work.  I have several MM's I could replace the Dynavector with including a Soundsmith Carmen MKII.

That being said, I'm not sure I can find one new for $1K, but maybe used, tjhat could better the Dynavector.  Though Im sure many will argue that.  Im not in a position to go and hear anything where I live, so that is a bit of a problem.

I have Thiel CS2.4 speakers running on a BAT VK-3ix pre and a Parasound A21 amp.  The preamp is tube the amp is SS.  I was thinking a tube phono pre might fit the bill better but I could be swayed either way.

Right now a short list would be:

Croft RIAA (new)
Audio Research PH-3 (used)
EAR? (used)
???

last_lemming
harold-not-the-barrel
895 posts
 
I just recently got a serviced 25 yrs old SS true balanced Electrocompaniet EC-3 w/ balanced MC board for under $900 off eBay and this true A class preamp performs just absolutely fantastic.
Plays very low output MCs such as 0.12 mV Highphonic MC R5 with power and nuances I haven´t experienced before. I do believe I couldn´t have got a better vintage or new preamp anywhere. It also has a true balanced input for CD. All in all, sheer quality by design and sound, weights like sin and runs hot as a true A class amp should.
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,862 posts
 
@last_lemming  Telefunken E88CC from Upscale Audio will take it to the next level.
last_lemming OP
639 posts
 
Well the better!!! At $350/tube a set of three would cost me more than the preamp!

im thinking $200 for all three tubes - or less. 
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,957 posts
 
RAM tubes
Roger has some of the best tube test gear on planet !!!!
or call Andy at Vintage Tube
he does NOT like  the Russians much but last time I spoke w him I bought some from him for an ARC

congrats on the ARC
good gear
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,862 posts
 
@last_lemming There are cheaper used alternatives on eBay. 
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