2. analog
  3. 149908-463

Should I upgrade my phono pre??

My custom Rega with an Apheta v.2 sounds great and I sure have been enjoying listening to so many LP's on my stereo. My phono stage is an AD-50 phono option board plugged into an Accuphase E-470. But then in a moment of weakness I bought a table that I've kind of lusted after for a long time, a Luxman PD-171 with a 10" Jelco 850 series arm. The cartridge is an Ortofon Cadenza Black. After solving a vexing ground loop issue, and getting the cartridge dialed in just right, I was simply unprepared for a shocking improvement in every aspect of the sound. When I cue up a record I can't but sit transfixed by the music. 

So I THOUGHT that my Rega/Apheta was the bomb. I had no idea that the Lux/Cadenza Black would be such a thrilling upgrade. Now I'm wondering if I would get yet another leap in performance if I was able to invest six to seven thousand (used or new) in a new phono pre. The AD-50 SEEMS awesome, and I'm a sucker for anything Accuphase, so my question is: Should I be shopping?

128x128oranfoster
solypsa's avatar
solypsa
462 posts
 
I've got an AS Phonolab 1.0 available to demo if you like. Since its a commercial interest for me I'll refrain from subjective commentary and just say 'you could hear it and make your own mind'. It's in your stated price range.

....if solid state sans SUT is something of interest....
*i love SUT/tubes too. But sometimes solid state can surprise you these days.
solypsa's avatar
solypsa
462 posts
 
I forgot to clarify: you can try the Phonolab in your home....
Have fun in your analog adventure!
oranfoster's avatar
oranfoster OP
127 posts
 
Well, the Herron phono stage certainly has a devoted following! I’ve seen so many posts in various threads raving about the VTPH-2A that it really does make me curious. The Accuphase card generates very little self noise giving it what I think must be very good resolution. Is the Herron super quiet and resolving? If I could get those traits plus the great tone density from its valve based circuitry it could make for quite a nice combo.

I’ll look up the Phonolab....

thanks for the insights so far....

~Oran
oranfoster's avatar
oranfoster OP
127 posts
 
mulveling,

In your experience, would a SUT compromise dynamic range?

three_easy_payments's avatar
three_easy_payments
2,097 posts
 
In your experience, would a SUT compromise dynamic range?

@oranfoster  My only experience is with a Zesto Allasso SUT and in this case definitely not.  It's not the cheapest option but I love the flexibility with its gain and loading options.  I use it with my Herron VTPH-2A and find it allows me to dial MC cartridges in much better than with the Herron single MC gain (plus several loading options) setting alone.I really now have the flexibility to let the Herron shine with virtually any cart I decide to try.


More to discover