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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
ihcho's avatar
ihcho
612 posts
 
The best phono stage I have experienced is the built-in phono from Plinius M16P preamp.

Has somebody gathered all recommended phono stages and ranked them yet? I wonder whether MAGI Phonomenal phono stage was mentioned at all. I have not used it, but I am thinking of ordering one. What is good about is it has two MM phono inputs. I prefer two MMs rather than one for MM and one for MC since I would rather use an SUT for MC cartridges. I also have a separate tonearm/table for mono and MM cartridges, so multiple input is a must.
kiko65
279 posts
 
The relatively new Pro-ject Phono Box RS Reference phono stage sounds pretty amazing for $999.00, especially if you are fortunate enough to buy a demo unit for $600.00 :-)

Capable to adapt to virtually any phono cartridge:
Variable input impedance loading (10 - 1200 ohms) adjustment, even while playing. Load capacity switchable (100pF 200pF, 300pF, 420pF, 520pF) Gain RCA: 40, 50, 60 dB XLR: 46, 56, 66 dB

It works extremely well with my 3 carts:
Everyday cart - Shure V15 type IV/Jico SAS
MM - AT ML170/occ
MC - 10X4 Gold LO/Soundsmith type II re-tip
ddriveman
171 posts
 
Wavac LCR-X2. Sublime.
lewm
13,228 posts
 
Kiko, Is it correct that the Pro-ject max input resistance is 1200 ohms? Yet in other respects it seems suitable for MM cartridges, as well as MC. Why does it not offer 47K ohms or the like?
ebm
9,311 posts
 
New TW Acustic the best i have ever heard.
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