Apologies, this may be a double post...
Parsons, I have the PL HP and a VPI Classic /Audio Technica ART9.
You have plenty of fodder to digest here. As long as you get a phono stage with 60 db's of gain, you're good with most LOMC@ .5mv.
One model I'm surprised not mentioned-Manely Chinook. Users and reviews seem to agree it's one of the best value/performance tubed models right now. Essentially a toned down SteelHead that's affordable(relatively speaking,all this stuff is overpriced)
One thing you may already be aware of-tubed equipment, even the BEST, will have some degree of noise compared to SS.
If you're one of those who puts their ear next to the speaker and complains about noise with the volume turned up, get a nice SS unit. IMO, a tubed unit simply sounds more realistic/natural and you won't hear noise from the listening position with proper selection/setup. "Best"is subjective like choosing your amp/speakers.
FWIW, I have a now discontinued Fosgate Signature V2 tubed phono. NOS tubed, Nordost plumbed. While I HAVENT had a phono stage twice the retail cost(5k) in my system, I believe I'm at the diminishing returns point.
My PL HP is currently fitted with 50's RCA 6L6G Coke bottles along with same vintage RCA preamp tubes.
Very nice sound on a budget! Until I hit the lottery or something dies, I'm done.
Parsons, I have the PL HP and a VPI Classic /Audio Technica ART9.
You have plenty of fodder to digest here. As long as you get a phono stage with 60 db's of gain, you're good with most LOMC@ .5mv.
One model I'm surprised not mentioned-Manely Chinook. Users and reviews seem to agree it's one of the best value/performance tubed models right now. Essentially a toned down SteelHead that's affordable(relatively speaking,all this stuff is overpriced)
One thing you may already be aware of-tubed equipment, even the BEST, will have some degree of noise compared to SS.
If you're one of those who puts their ear next to the speaker and complains about noise with the volume turned up, get a nice SS unit. IMO, a tubed unit simply sounds more realistic/natural and you won't hear noise from the listening position with proper selection/setup. "Best"is subjective like choosing your amp/speakers.
FWIW, I have a now discontinued Fosgate Signature V2 tubed phono. NOS tubed, Nordost plumbed. While I HAVENT had a phono stage twice the retail cost(5k) in my system, I believe I'm at the diminishing returns point.
My PL HP is currently fitted with 50's RCA 6L6G Coke bottles along with same vintage RCA preamp tubes.
Very nice sound on a budget! Until I hit the lottery or something dies, I'm done.