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Phono Pre Advice

Hi,
I'm in the market for a new phono stage $2,500-$3,500 (or so)
VPI Classic 1, Ortofon Quintet Blue, JPS Labs cables
Current phono pre: Channel Islands PEQ-1 MKII/AC15 MKII power supply. Is is a little "lean" relatively low noise but lacking weight and dynamics

In contention are:
Modwright PH-9 + power supply
Goldnote PH10 + power supply
PS Audio Stellar Phono (when released in September) no option for external power supply
*also love the look of the Thorens tep 302! Anyone heard it?

Thank you for any and all thoughts on those listed or others not on my radar, lots of amazing experience here!!

Best,
-JP
jp-2213
three_easy_payments's avatar
three_easy_payments
2,097 posts
 
Herron VTPH-2A...transformational in my system and in your price range.
Post removed 
simao's avatar
simao
1,820 posts
 
I have the Gold Note and am comparing it with my existing LFD LE. The Gold Note is tremendous and its myriad tuning options really help nail the sound you want and that your record demands. I find it's not as expansive as the LFD, though it does dig out upper level details better.

Have you also considered the Parasound JC3+? It's the under-$10K reference for many audio writers.
jp-2213 OP
43 posts
 
Thank you!
i do not have a local Herron dealer but I will do as much research as I can, very intriguing and all of their preamps have a stellar reputation 

@simao is the LCD display on the PH 10 distracting to you? Can you defeat it entirely? 

I have have looked at the  Parasound, I have opened a few Halo pieces in the past, looking to go in a different direction, and while not as important as performance, I feel the aesthetic of the Halo line could use and update even if that would add some $$ to the cost.

thx again,
-JP
jp-2213 OP
43 posts
 
*Owned a few Halo pieces...
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