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Lehmann Black Cube SE II or Manley Chinook?

Hello all - just looking for some advice as I consider a change in phono pre. I'm running a vpi classic into a budgie Jensen SUT into a Lehmann Black Cube SE II into an ARC LS26. Power amps are Quicksilver Mini Mites driving Triton Two speakers. On the whole I'm very happy with this combo and I've been a fan of the black cube se ii for some time now. But someone I sell a lot of records to wants to move his Manley chinook and is willing to strike quite a deal with me for it. He is a dedicated audiophile with pristine gear so I'm very tempted having read many of the raves of the chinook over the years and having one friend who swears by this pre. So my questions are:

1. Does anyone have experience with both pres who can give me a sense of what kind of an upgrade I would get with this move?
2. I'm a little concerned about having too much tubiness going on with the Manley/LS26/mini mite combo - should I be worried about this?
3. Currently I experience absolutely no noise at all using my SUT into the Lehmann with the two very close together. Of course the Lehmann has a separate ps that is way down near the floor of my rack. If I put the Manley close to the SUT will I possibly experience hum problems? I was skeptical about the SUT approach for a long time and just ran my MC cart (dv20x2) into the Lehmann with appropriate MC settings. But when I got a chance to try the SUT, well, I was quickly hooked on the sound.

That's all. Appreciate any input, thanks.

davelarz
kdude66
1,200 posts
 
Only one way to truly find out and that is to try it for yourself.

I read what Art Dudley spoke about and gave it several tries myself with various components and my present setup as mentioned worked out best for me.

I generally do follow the less is more and the simpler the better mindset though with all components in my system.
 

Best,

Kenny.

soix
9,687 posts
 
While I've not heard them, I've seen numerous threads where people pretty strongly preferred pres from Allnic and Herron to the Chinook. Might want to see what's available from them at a similar price point.  FWIW and best of luck. 
smrex13
645 posts
 
At that price point, I would highly recommend the Rogue Ares.  I found it to be superior to the Manley and the Lehmann.  

Best, Scott
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