Being a dedicated user of a very high output pickup, I like you did not want to pay for an extra gain stage (or step-up transformer) I wouldn't be using. So I gave Keith Herron a call to see if he had the long-since discontinued VTPH-1mm laying around. He didn't, but he did have a -1mc which he offered to rebuild into a -1mm for me. Give him a call, you may be as lucky as I.
MM/MI Phono Stages
I am switching from a Dynavector 10x5 to a Soundsmith Aida. I was always very happy with the 10x5 even after hearing way more expensive carts I was never left dissatisfied with its performance. With its price increasing quite a bit in the last few years I have made a decision to go with a more expensive SS model that can be re-tipped and repaired instead of shelling out money for new MC every couple of years.
I have been using a Musical Surroundings Nova Phonoema. I also have a very good internal MM in my pre amp that is pretty close the SQ level of the Nova just different.
If I buy used what MM phono stages should I be looking at? I want Capacitance loading options, better sound quality and I don't really want to spend money on the MC option because I don't need it. So are there really good stand alone MM Stages that give you more bang for your buck then getting one on of these MM/MC stages.
Thanks
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If you're not shocked to go under the chassis, Violectric has fully adjustable balanced phonostage: http://www.lake-people.de/produktdetails/PPA_V600.html |
http://libertyaudio.com/products/b2b-1-all-fet-phono-preamp Above can be configured for MM only and if so can be fitted with up to 6 different Capacitive loading options. Yes I do make them Good Listening Peter |
Darkstar, if you want to go SS take a look at Peter's Liberty B2B. I saw and heard it at last year's T.H.E. Show in Anaheim, and it's real nice. For tubes, Herron does some direct sales, and may occasionally take a VTPH-1mm in on trade for a -2 (my -1 was one such). If doesn't have adjustable loading, but Keith will set it up any way you want. He put in the specific resistance and capacitance I wanted in mine, and even sent along a couple of extra tubes. A great, great guy to deal with. Ask him to contact you if and when he gets a VTPH-1 (mm or mc) in. Also read Art Dudley's review of the Tavish Design Adagio in the June Stereophile. He liked it a lot, and it's priced at only $1490. |
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