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Sonic Frontiers Line 2, Heaven or Hell?

Looking for recommendations here concerning a pre amp swap. I am currently using a Linn Kolecktor but wanting to go the tube route with a preamp. The Linn has a MM phono section and not a perfect match for my 2.5 mv MC cart.
Should I look for a tube preamp that has a MC phono stage or go with 2 separate pieces?
I am currently auditioning a Sonic Frontiers Line 2 that has no phono stage. I like the warmth of tubes and with some rolling should be able to get it dialed in to a sound I like.
If I keep it, then I will just probably pickup a Phonomena pre for the phono. If the Sonic goes away then I am back to looking for a tube preamp with a phono section that is flexible to accept a variety of carts.
As always I like to get a lot of bang for the buck.
128x128blueskiespbd
blueskiespbd's avatar
blueskiespbd OP
161 posts
 
So are you saying that with the right tubes the SF will not sound warm? What did you change to? Recommendations?
brf
1,715 posts
 
Yes, tube rolling with the SF Line series will change the sound but you will never get the Line 2 to sound warm. My favorite tube combination was the Holland made Amperex 7308 white label....very neutral sounding.
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
your linn pre should be a good solid match for any high output mc or quality mm. this lack of warmth may be your cartridge. even a solid mm like goldring will warm the place up.
chashas1
596 posts
 
certainly not heaven for me...if you're looking for a change that wouldn't be my answer, and I agree, it will never sound warm, or I haven't heard it like that. It just doesn't play music to me, no matter what you pair it with.
blueskiespbd's avatar
blueskiespbd OP
161 posts
 
I think my cart is fine and to me the digital end would benefit from a tune preamp to counter the ss amps. This Sonic needs to back to to Canada for a $300 volume control fix. so I can't decide to keep it or not.
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