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Looking for phono preamp suggestions

My system 
sme 30/2 with Dynavector 17dx catridge, cardas clear beyond phono cable with xlr termination ,
ayre kx-r twenty preamp ,
ayre mc-r twenty monoblocks 
kef blade speakers 
cardas clear cables for rest of system .
cureently using ayre p-5 Phonostage .
asking for recommendations for upgrading the phono stage .
requirements xlr inputs and outputs.
looking for more depth and separation in sound stage and more sweetness / magic/ romance 
Thanks in advance .

newtoncr
czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,752 posts
 
Herron VTPH2 Aexcellent phono stage irrespective of price. I have one and use Telefunken NOS tubes which was a nice upgrade.

http://www.herronaudio.com/vtph2specs.html

Chuck 
newtoncr OP
151 posts
 
@three_easy_payment.
around 10k
three_easy_payments's avatar
three_easy_payments
2,097 posts
 
Luxman EQ-500.  I own this as well as the Herron VTPH-2A and the Luxman is superior in every way and has the XLR's you're seeking.  Yes, it costs more but it is well worth it IMO.
solypsa's avatar
solypsa
462 posts
 
A few thoughts:
Any SUT can be wired balanced and use xlr inputs.

AudioSpecials Phonolab has balanced in and out, although the inputs are mini lemo 3 pin not xlr 3 pin (caveat I sell this, just to disclose)
I have not heard the dx but older 17 carts were not 'romantic'...ymmv

almarg's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
almarg
9,670 posts
 
@three_easy_payments

Re the Luxman EQ-500, I note that depending on the selection between the two LOMC gain modes it provides it presents the cartridge with a load impedance of either 40 ohms or 2.5 ohms. While the OP’s 0.3 mv cartridge has a recommended load impedance of >100 ohms, and an internal impedance of 32 ohms. Doesn’t seem like a good match in either gain mode.

Best regards,
-- Al

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