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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
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
12,570 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.
tbg
5,263 posts
 
Like Michael Fremer, I think the B.M.C. MCCI is at least second best, with only the Ypsilon perhaps better.
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