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Phono preamp with best mid bass

Let me explain my ideal sound and see if you guys have any suggestions. I realize speakers and and every other things contributes but looking for a phono that leans naturally toward the sound I’m looking for. 
 

I like a strong mid/upper bass that is highly articulated. Highs that are not overdone and natural. Sub bass is not as important for the music I listen to but what’s down there I prefer punchy rather than big. Natural mids that are well defined. Detailed but not to an extent that compromises robustness or gets too analytical. 
 

Been looking at the tube models. Rogue Ares looks intriguing as they mention some of the traits I am looking for in the reviews I’ve read. 
 

thanks

mofojo
blisshifi's avatar
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blisshifi
1,209 posts
 

@tooblue Thank you! If you ever come up to the Minneapolis area feel free to look me up and we can coordinate a listening session!

mofojo OP
2,304 posts
 

@tooblue ,

I have the Marantz TT15S1. I believe it’s a Clear audio table re badged. It’s stock clear audio cartridge and arm that came on it. 
 

thanks

mofojo OP
2,304 posts
 

Looking at the Rogue Ares 2 and the Vincent PHO-701. Anyone compare the 2 and is the Rogue worth over double the Vincent. Both seem to get great reviews. 

lewm
13,228 posts
 

I’m with tooblue on this question. Tonal balance will be interdependent with tonearm, wires, cartridge, alignment, all upstream, and on amplifier, speakers, and room downstream.

wrm57
1,054 posts
 

You might also want to play around with speaker positioning, including toe-in, before you jump into a new phono stage. Mid-bass can be dramatically affected by surprisingly small changes therein.

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