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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

darkstar1
bpoletti
1,557 posts
 
Get a Herron.  IMO, with either model, they are very musically satisfying.  I think it's a good idea to call Keith Herron and just discuss what you want to do. 

The great benefit of owning a Herron Audio product is that you get Keith Herron's personal attention.
darkstar1 OP
180 posts
 
yeah I just put the Aida on the prime today. I really am enjoying it so far. I have some dialing in do. I am going to listen for a month or two then decide if I want to go SS or Tube. 

If you asked me today I would say tube. My system is pretty netural and so is the Aida. Its really enjoyable but a slight tube warmth may be a really good fit but I need sometime before I really decide. Thanks everyone. 
nandric's avatar
nandric
4,086 posts
 

The question is how to get optimal results in the cheapest way.

My answer is a good MM phono-pre in combination with a SUT.

In my second system I use Jasmine LP2 with improved MM

part with Denon AU-S1 SUT. I started with FR-FRT-4 because of

its versatility ( 3, 10, 30 and 100 Ohm) but the Denon sounds

better in my opinion and ''cover'' 3> 40 Ohm ''range''. While the

MC input by Jasmine sunds very good the combo with the SUT

sounds much better. Total cost +/- 1200 euro.



audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
I like the Vincent pho 700 mm/mc tube/solid state hybrid , this beats out numerous phono pre-amp's  costing many times more money 😎
sancho22
107 posts
 

Just for fun check out Tavish design Adagio MM/MC for about $1500.

No affiliation just a very happy customer - this great separate power supply phono stage is on par with my Shindo Aurieges paired with either the Auditorium 23 Denon or Hommage. A friend of mine borrowed it and A/B with a few others and was very sad when he had to return it to me.

Worth at least a look - YMMV

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