2. analog
  3. 1195322402

Stand out phono stages

This topic has been started before by others and myself as well, maybe too many times, but it is worth revisiting since the source is so very important!
So far I have had the pleasure to enjoy two worthy phono stages: the EAR 834p and the JLTI.
I have to admit they are spectacular. Obviously the record and all the equipment downstream play a role in the sound heard. In some cases I prefer the JLTI and in other cases the EAR. But neither out do the other dramatically.
What phono preamps outshine others by a big margin, those that can be considered the last phono preamp ever needed.
pedrillo
steam3642
124 posts
 
A.M.Audio MM-20 Reference.
thuchan
1,009 posts
 
Kondo KSL M7 Phono in combination with SUT SFZ - is the winner of our phonostage shootout. It is a wounderful phonostage for low output MCs (but also provides a 40 Ohm input, 3 Ohm, 1 Ohm).
mordante
511 posts
 
Array Obsydian PH-2
dcarol
62 posts
 
Just got the new Whest PS.30RDT Special Edition.

This is my favorite. Ultra quiet at 65dB, all discrete with a superb wide, brilliant soundstage, absolutely spot-on imaging and musical to boot.
Compared it to an Audio Research PH7 and the PS.30RDT Special Edition killed it! No contest.

Using a Dynavector XV1-S with absolute blackness in the background! Wonderful. Just need a new cartridge now!
bpoletti
1,552 posts
 
I've been very pleased with my Herron VTPH-1MC. Surprised nobody mentioned it.

I haven't heard the latest Herron phono stage, but I doubt he would introduce a new top-of-the-line unit without it bettering the older one.

I should note that my system uses Herron electronics exclusively.
More to discover