Tube Phono Stage

I have a Parks Budgie, it was a big upgrade over an art dj. Changing the tubes out makes a noticeable difference in my system. I am running some older amperex tubes. I tried sovteks, jan phillips, and EH. I dont really like the EH in anything, but its not bad in the budgie.

To throw in another suggestion, I have used a K&K Audio phono stage for I think 10 years. I have upgraded the turntable and never felt the need to improve the Phono stage. It comes In kit form, but Kevin arranged for mine to be built. He regularly comes up with upgrade kits at a very reasonable price, which make a real difference. I recommend you like at his website and perhaps speak to him, he is very helpful.

OK Halifax, if I spring for a pair of NOS Amperex 6922's and I'm not impressed I'll be looking for you !! HA! HA !

First of, you are assuming that all bad stuff which bothering you is coming from phono, which might or might not be so. It might come from the cartridge/arm/TT /preamp, cables etc., on the first place. I would try different (darker, better) cartridges and cables first. Then you’ll have to bring your perspective phono home and test it with your cartridge/arm/TT/pre/speakers etc., in your listening room)))). Unfortunately there is no substitute for that, the rest is just gambling. Moreover, to pic a really the best of the pack you’ll have to keep all of them for some time and switch from one to another back and forth until you finally hear the micro nuances which sets them a part. But even if you’ll be able to do all of the above, it is absolutely no guaranty that you’ll choose the right one)). Thats the name of the game.
P.S. To me, the uglier the look of the chase the better, because I’m not wasting money onto B.S. aluminum boxes and LED lights. I prefer better performing parts inside. Only the sound matters. ;~)

Thanks  guys,

I never thought the sound of the OEM EH 6922 was bad. Nothing jumps out at me, brittle highs, weak bass etc. It's just I have no basis for comparison. FWIW, Keven Deal from up scale audio gave high marks for the new EH 6922, but he's in business to sell tubes. Shannon Parks is a real nice guy. He always answers my emails about the Budgie. I think I may be better served putting the money for NOS tubes towards adding to my record collection. I think sometimes we go nuts over the gear and forget about the music !
That's what all this is about in the end.
Cheers