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Should I upgrade my phono linestage first or the tonearm for better results?

Hello all,

I am wondering if I would get more out of an upgrade to my current tonearm, the Graham 2.0, or should I switch out the phono stage AcousTech Ph1P? I am guessing about the same money either way, budget around $2500 for the upgrade. I would be looking to purchase used equipment on this.

Related components:

Clearaudio Virtuoso 2 cartridge

BAT VK 31SE preamp

Krell KSA 250 amplifier

Aerial 10T speakers

Graham IC70 tonearm cable

Transparent reference interconnects

Transparent Ultra MM bi-wire speaker cables


Thank you in advance!!



128x128arrowav8r
arrowav8r's avatar
arrowav8r OP
8 posts
 
I understand that logic.  would you think it makes sense to go to $10k on the cartridge, or is it a diminishing return at some point??
folkfreak's avatar
folkfreak
1,349 posts
 
Sure there are diminishing returns but in the context of a six figure system and if you can afford a $10K cart then the Phantom could take it! I’m surely not recommending it as a next step and I’d assume you have upgraded the phono stage commensurately before then. 

My own experience was that only once I upgraded my arm (TriPlanar VII replaced by a Kairos) was it that I really found out what my cartridge (AirTight PC1) could do
ebm
9,311 posts
 
Upgrade both very soon for best sound.
folkfreak's avatar
folkfreak
1,349 posts
 
Off your main question but if you really have money burning a hole in your pocket you should invest in some proper power cords ( you didn't list any power products)

personally I like Synergistic Research but there are lots of good options out there all easily available used and if you haven't done so you really should invest
palasr
525 posts
 
" I have just ordered a Mint LP protractor kit, it is arriving next week. I am looking forward to more precise alignment than the DB protractor I currently use."

I think you'll be more than pleased with this purchase, and this may end your desire to throw cash at a problem that may or may not exist.  Going from the DB to the Mint is a major leap in setup precision - orders of magnitude, not degree.   Frankly, I'm always stunned when I hear folks with nice systems not using an arc protractor to do their setup.  
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