2. analog
  3. 182470-463

Small form factor, SS phono preamp recommendation.

Hello all.... I've been using the very capable iFi Zen Phono as a place-holder for quite some time now. Using it's balanced output and upgraded power-supply I think it's a fantastic little unit. My 'table is a Luxman PD171A with a Jelco 850 10" arm and right now it's mounted with my Hana Umami Red. I also have an Accuphase E-5000 and will soon be taking delivery of a pair of Borresen Z5 Cryos. With my cabinet (which my wife calls "the Ark of the Covenant"), and the overall aesthetics of the room, I'm looking for a small, solid state, very high performing phono preamp. Since I just spent crazy money on the Accuphase and Borresens my budget is limited to $3,000 or so. I've been considering a Nova III with the upgraded power supply, a graham Slee Accession with upgraded power supply, an Accuphase AD-40 phono card, or a Whest. What am I missing? I'm to the point that I want to settle into years of stability with my stereo, and just enjoy mining my record collection and the many great record stores in Chicagoland. Thank you for reading,

~Oran

128x128oranfoster
grislybutter
2,877 posts
 

@oranfoster 

I know you asked questions, but I see on your (amazing, fun) photos: Rega Fono MM and Cambridge Audio Alva Duo. Do you have any advice, which one is better?

 

oranfoster's avatar
oranfoster OP
127 posts
 

@grislybutter Yes, the CA Audio Alva Duo is really quiet, resolving, and sounds great.

 

grislybutter
2,877 posts
 

thanks @oranfoster 

For a Rega P3, is it better than the Rega phono stage?

PS I am addicted to pastry and bake all the time 

oranfoster's avatar
oranfoster OP
127 posts
 

@grislybutter I should have mentioned that I used to own a Rega Aria, a more pricey unit than the Fono MM and found that it had way too much self-generated noise. With a good MM cart, your phono-stage may be a little less critical so you really have many good options. The CA Alva Duo was great and I probably shouldn't have sold the one I had. The iFi Zen Phono with it's upgraded power supply is super great too. Well, we just sold Village Baker and I should take down that system.... thanks for checking it out! I bet your pastries are wonderful. I usually find that people who bake at home bring real passion and care to baking and often make sublime pastries and breads. 

 

grislybutter
2,877 posts
 

I have been baking since I the age of 6. Twice a week at least. Lots of Central European recipes. My grandmother ran a company that invented baking for the masses - before them it was mostly an upper class event - the maid baked for riches.

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