2. analog
  3. 157159-120075

Next upgrade for my analog source

Hi all! hope I can get some opinions on the next upgrade step for my analog source.

Currently am using Rega P6 TT with Nagaoka MP 200 (MM) cartridge, and the EAR 834P fonostage.

Preamp and amp are using Lumley Reference Amplifier (Tube KT88) and going to PMC 20.24 speakers. 

So am thinking of either:
1. upgrading the fonostage to the new PS audio Stellar phono (getting rave reviews)
2. upgrading the cartridge to MC type (maybe Lyra Delos?)
3. upgarding the TT itself (not sure what to get in the $2k-$2.5k range)

I mostly listen to classical (violin, orchestra) and jazz on my analog source.

Thanks for any inputs!
jadislover
jadislover OP
11 posts
 
Justmetoo and jperry thanks for the input!. My rega p6 tt output cables are built in (cant be replaced) and does not have a separate ground cable. Would this hinder the improvements if i go lyra delos? 
Yes my pmc has biwiring terminals and yes I am only using the base terminal, and using the jumper meta (small clyindrical bronze). Would the sound improve if i change to jumper cables?

currently im auditioning the ps audio stellar phonostage pre amp. First impression is the detail and sound stage is really good... but the sound is a bit thin compared  to my 834p. Probably needs more break in time.

slaw's avatar
slaw
22,508 posts
 
@jadislover,

I owned a 834P for over a decade. It's known to have a better sounding mm stage than it's mc stage. If you go for a lomc,  you"ll need a SUT and another phono cable.
sandthemall
544 posts
 
This is a tough one. All your equipment is relatively good.
Improving any one will be an incremental improvement.

Interesting that all your choices are a little on the euphonic side.
Maybe take a step with any one of these elements toward a very precise analytic side. This may add a little more resolution.

Maybe the next cartridge is a Microline?
Maybe the next turntable is a direct drive?
Maybe the next phonostage is solid state?


jperry
2,468 posts
 

Two phono preamps I can recommend in your price range are made by Lejonklou, I have heard both and they are great phono preamps each dedicated MM or MC. You can look at reviews on-line, and hopefully do a home audition if interested

Slipsik 7: moving magnet phono preamp

Signal Gain- 41 dB

Retail Price: $1795.00

 

Entity: moving coil phono preamp

Input Impedance- 90, 120, 180 Ohms switchable / +10 nF

Signal Gain- 71 dB

Retail Price: $2695.00

Best Regards,

Jim Perry

chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
So what’s the alternative to your MP 200 then?!?
I suggest a very NICE MM cartridge

Let us know how it all goes, but the first and most imortant step would be a top MM cartridge, I’d say. 😉
M.


I agree with the statement above. 

Stanton SC-100 WOS is one of my favorite and it is not the most expensive MM, the sound is magical. Stereohedron II profile!

Pioneer PC-1000 MKII is in this league too, also not expensive, but very rare.

If you have a budget over $1k then Grace LEVEL II (Ruby, Sapphire, Boron or Beryllium...)  




More to discover