2. analog
  3. 1022507027

phono preamp

Hi, I'm thinking about getting into analog until the cd format becomes more clear. I own Dahlquist speakers (20I's) and Legend Audio triode amps. I don't have a pre-amp and I'm not sure I will get one. I would like to know if there are any phono pre-amps with a volume control for under $1000 that sound good? I know there is the EAR, but know of no other. How does the EAR sound? Also, can I use a regular interconnect from amps to the phono stage and to the turntable, or is there a special cable that I use to the turntable? I'm thinking about a Rega 3 or 25 turntable, since I know nothing about turntables and I heard they are easy to set up. Any advise would be appreciated. Thanks
smw30yahoocom
smw30yahoocom OP
154 posts
 
I'm just starting my search, so I don't know what cartridge I'll be using. I'll probably just take the recommendation of the rega people, or whoever I buy the table from for now. I really know nothing about cartridges, etc. but will take any advise for now. Thanks
emale
11 posts
 
I don't know which cartridge you intend to use but beware of using a tube phono stage with a low gain cartridge. Noise could easily become a problem. The Electrocompaniet ECP1 is a fantastic $1000 solid state phono preamp that very few people seem to know about. I have heard it trounce numerous phono stages costing up too $2500. It's liquid and naturally warm, yet fast and controlled. I highly recommend a listen before making a decision.

As far as turntables, consider stretching your budget to a table that is far better built and upgradable. The Michell Gyrodec is such a table. It's suspended (an absolute must IMO), stunning looking and walks that fine line between musicality and neutrality extremely well. The Gyro SE starts at $2200 with a Rega RB300 arm.

Good luck!
emale
11 posts
 
oops!

I should have read your post more closely. The Electrocompaniet is strictly a phono stage and has no volume control. It is fantastic none the less.
dlq2
5 posts
 
I recommend the Wright WPP100B/C phono pre amp, it goes for $750 and is tube, put out by The Wright Sound Company.

Great review in last issue of Listener
fishinfool
32 posts
 
I like the Quicksilver tube phone preamp. In stock form, it only has 44db gain, so you cannot use low output moving coils without a step-up transformer. In my system, the Quicksilver "blew away" the EAR, but the EAR (as I recall) has more gain which allows a wider range of cartridges to be used (w/o requiring a step-up transfomer). The unit retails for $900.
More to discover