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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
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,784 posts
 
Make each component as neutral as possible. That's what the best preamps or the best anything seek to do

I agree, base a system on its strengths rather than using the weakness in one component to counteract the weaknesses in another!
rockitman's avatar
rockitman
417 posts
 
if it hasn't been mentioned yet.... Pass Labs XP-25, definately a stand out phono stage.
dgad
782 posts
 
Rockitman, a strong second on that. It ain't cheap but a steal for what it does
twkong1960
1 posts
 
My full vote goes to the Whest ps0.30rdt. It is so natural sounding yet preserving all the details with no lack in dynamics and musicality. My next upgrade will definitely be the SE. MC Ref V will be a dream come thru but I can sure live with the SE for the rest of my sonic life.
dgob
848 posts
 
Hi Dougdeacon and Atmasphere,

I wholly agree that the ideal path is to seek component neutrality and not to pander to any distortions or colourations that may exist in any single part(s) of the chain.

This can take time but seems to me to really justify itself in replaying what is recorded.

As always
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