I am currently going through a similar quest. I have a JD9 that is upgraded to include new opamps, Clarity ESA Caps, updated resistors, and tung sol tubes. I've rolled Mullard, Cifte, RCA Clear Tops, and others through it. It was upgraded by the factory, and I’ve been happy with it. But, the upgrade bug bites, doesn’t it? I’ve had it for 7 or 8 years, and I think it’s great in that it is very flexible and upgradeable. The only thing really left to do is add the bybee power rails. That would be like $500, so I wanted to experiment.
I am in Minneapolis so have the luxury of going to NeedleDoctor, who has many options available. So, I have these on loan from them: Musical Surroundings Nova II, Project PhonoBox SE , Channel Islands PEQ1. All are about $1k. I’m just getting started. But, so far:
On initial setup, the Project and CI were both overly bright and brittle. Both the GF (non audiophile) and I thought it was a step down from the JD9. The Nova was smooth, has great extension, slightly warm, and overall a clear standout. Great separation and soundstage!
I left them all on overnight to break in, and did some adjustments. For one thing, I have Steger Silver Solids from the TT to the PreAmp and to the Integrated (Primaluna Dialogue Premium HP). I thought maybe the cables were part of the issue, so I traded them out for some mid-range Monster copper. That helped a LOT! And, I worked with each of the preamps to adjust them for my cart (DV 10x5). After I pick a preamp, I will try going back to the silver cables to see what happens. Or, may consider other interconnects if necessary.
Now, doing some less than critical listening, they sound very similar to each other. I think the choice between the three is going to be tough. Over the next few days I will do some more listening, with a variety of music. The plan is to pick the favorite one, and then compare it to the JD9. I don’t know how it will flesh out, but my initial thought is that the Musical Surroundings Nova II will be the winner. It seems smooth at all frequencies, and well balanced overall. But, I am not ruling the others out.
Is anyone in Minneapolis who would like to listen with me and the GF to evaluate them all? If yes, then PM me. Later, I will return and give my final thoughts. Needle Doctor allowed me to check them out at home for a week or so. I hope to get close to a decision by Monday, which is when I promised to bring them back. So many thanks to NeedleDoctor, who said I can keep them longer if needed. The guys at ND are full of good information, and SUPER easy to deal with! I worked with Ken, the manager, but all the guys there are smart, informed, fun to work with. Highly recommended dealer!!
I hope this wasn’t too much of a thread-jack. I know this is below the OP’s budget, but may be helpful anyway. So far, what I’m hearing tells me that I don’t need to double or triple my budget to improve on the JD9 and get great sound. FWIW, my speakers are B&W 803N.
