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Manley Chinook or Zesto Andros 1.2

Looking to add a phonostage for my system. Right now i have a vpi prime with ortofon 2m black cart, rogue cronus magnum II integrated amp and tannoy xt8f for speakers. I'm leaning on getting a Ortofon Quintet Black.

I've narrowed it down to these two Manley Chinook or Zesto Andros 1.2. I know theres a big price difference but I can get a used andros 1.2 for a good price.

Performance/sound, versatility and quality which one is better? Will any of those phono stage pair up well with my integrated amp?

I want phono that will last for a long time.

Im open to other phonostage as well.
128x128lestelepaul
lestelepaul's avatar
lestelepaul OP
6 posts
 
Another question... Does having a better phono stage and an ok integrated makes a big difference than having a ok phono stage and an better integrated amp?
miner42
709 posts
 
It will be the phono stage that will extract all that it can from your cartridge; even though the int. amp will be the bottle neck take care of the pieces upstream, get the best you can afford, and, then consider upgrading downstream.
jimjones
3 posts
 
I have a Zesto 1.2 and a Cadenza black running with a SP10/EPA100 arm all through MAC Tube gear and Tannoy 15 inch Monitor Golds in GRF cabs. All I can say is killer pairing. Sounds wonderful.
Buy the Zesto and use the 2m till you can afford the Cadenza black.
lestelepaul's avatar
lestelepaul OP
6 posts
 
Just bought the zesto. Will get here on wednesday. Can't wait!
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tpauline
1 posts
 
You won't be disappointed in your selection!  I just went through this exact process a few months ago... Chinook vs Zesto...everything lead to the purchase of the Zesto over the Chinook!  This also meant that my cart upgrade got pushed off, but the Zesto is an amazing phono preamp and I'm SOOOO glad I went in this direction!

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