2. amps-preamps
  3. 131741-371

Any integrated's phono that can compete with $2.5k - $3k outboard one ?

MM and MC, though mostly interested in MM. I am aware of Gryphon. Not interested in Accuphase or Luxman. Tube or solid state or hybrid, no difference if it sounds right to me. Should be powerful enough, at least 60 watts tube or 100 watts solid state.
inna
bdp24's avatar
bdp24
10,008 posts
 
The phono section of both the Atma-Sphere MP-3 and EAR-Yoshino 868.
dekay's avatar
dekay
5,685 posts
 
I recommend Accuphase or Luxman.

DeKay
inna OP
7,573 posts
 
In my initial post I did say that I had no interest in either Accuphase or Luxman. They are overpriced badly in this country, especially Accuphase, and my sound preferences do not include Japanese solid state electronics.
Anyway, it appears that at this performance level there really is no substitute for a separate phono stage. Gryphon might be an exception if you want solid state, I don't know. This would confirm what I suspected. 
Phono in a preamp would be a different discussion, though the outcome of it might be exactly the same - outboard phono is a must at this level, no way around it. Some onboard phonos would do as transitional to better sound.
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