2. amps-preamps
  3. 1144549541

Which Tube Phono Stage around $1k?

I'm looking for a phono stage to mate with my Linn LP12/Ittok arm and a Clearaudio Virtuoso Wood cartridge. The line stage is a VTL 6.5. In the under $1k range, the Underwood Level 1 mod of the Jolida JD9a looks promising at $800. Totally stretching my budget would be a used or demo Audio Research PH5, but maybe someone can convince me that it's worth the stretch. A similar stretch might be a used Cary 302. Any comment on these or others I should consider? I'm pretty much dead set on tubes. I'll have to hear a really convincing endorsement to consider anything solid state! Thanks
pscialli
dlwask
270 posts
 
I see what you mean Denf, the P5 is stuffed full of good stuff.

How quiet is the P5 when compared to the 834p? The 834p I had in my system was whisper quiet, maybe the step up transformers?

Anyone hear the Blue Circle phono stage, the BC27pi?
hagtech
173 posts
 
Check out the Cornet Classic re-issue, $699.

jh
dlwask
270 posts
 
Hagtech (Jim right?), if things work out I'll be auditioning your Trumpet phono stage in my system next week. I am anxiously counting the days!
clio09
3,353 posts
 
Dlwask - I'm running the Hagerman Trumpet in my system now using a K&K step-up transformer. NOS RCA 12AU7 tubes and NOS Mullard 12AX7 tubes, both quads from the late '50s. I am very pleased with the performance.
mre2007
90 posts
 
Can anyone describe in some more detail the differences they have heard between the ARC PH3, BAT P-5, and EAR 834p?
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