2. amps-preamps
  3. 191786-38016

suggestions for new phono stage

So, I have settled on the Zyx Ultimate Airy for the cartridge and would like to see if I can get a larger soundstage with better 3D imaging.  Am thinking about a phono stage as a way to do this.  I currently have a JLTi v 3 and have enjoyed it over the years, perhaps there is better?  I really like the tube sound (I know the JLTi is SS but very nice).  Budget is about $3500 willing to buy used.  System is Nottingham Spacedeck with SME 309 arm with Van Den Hul silver tonearm cable, Amp is Cayim 300B with some really nice tube upgrades, speakers are Omega AlNiCo 6" and Omega deep hemp subs.  Some possibilities are VTL TP 2.5i, Manley Chinook, Cary VT 500, Allnic H1500II LCR, Zesto Andros PS1, Prima Luna EVO 100, Hagerman Trumpet, RCM Audio Sensor, Paradox Phono 70 signature, and of course the JLTi v5.  I need to narrow this down! 

Thanks for any help here. 

oceanica
inagroove
120 posts
 

I am using an Zesto Andros 1.2.  It is attractive, flexible and sounds great (of course). 

George is one of the nicest guys in the industry, and returns calls himself.

Finally, I am using the stock JJ83ECC 12AX7 tubes, which are inexpensive and George said sounded better than everything else, including NOS.

If I were upgrading, I would look no further than ARC or Zesto - two of the best at your price point.

Borrow/demo a short list (maybe top 2 or 3) to make your final decision.

I am not affiliated...

oceanica OP
18 posts
 

Thanks again everyone.  Does anyone else have experience with the Hagerman Trumpet?  I know it uses jfet front end, but so do some of the others in this thread that run double the price or more.  

tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,927 posts
 

Jfet isn’t going to hurt your quest for better image depth or specificity… i say this from my own direct long term ownership experience with several respectable phono from ARC, Herron, etc…most designers brands mentioned in this thread know how to properly implement a Jfet. The all tube Rhea is excellent, but as noted feeding it tubes can be expensive  A SUT like any transformer introduces a whole nuther set of distortion… have fun and enjoy the journey 

tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,927 posts
 

@bkeske has tube rolled a Trumpet… perhaps he will weigh in. my understanding is he loves it…. but i NEVER recommend gear i haven’t heard…which imo should be standard practice……

oceanica OP
18 posts
 

I settled on the Trumpet.  For the price and flexibility I thought I ought to give it a try.  Just received it and will post a review soon.  Just fyi, I would guess that while Zyx spec for output is listed at .24 mv, I would bet it is more like .35.  I can drop the gain on the Trumpet to 55 db and still get concert level loud at about 3:00 on the Cayin.  
 

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