2. analog
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Used phono preamp options - feedback requested

Greetings, all.

Here's my rig:

Thorens TD124 Mk 1 w/Mk II upgrades
Lyra Delos or Paradox Pulse D103R
Handmade Walnut Arm on unipivot bearing
Paradox Pulse Phono 70 preamp (MM/MC)

I'm in the market to find a phono stage up to about $2K to compare and contrast with the Paradox Pulse.

Open to suggestions however, considering these specific phono stages (all used):

Clearaudio Balance Plus
Sutherland 20/20
EAR Phonobox
Sonic Frontiers Phase 1 SE
Musical Fidelity MX-VYNL
Musical Fidelity NuVista
and possibly a Herron VTPH-1 (I can't get the guy to contact me back).

and.new:

Decware ZP3 and ZMC SUT

I'm interested in tubes primarily, but can be swayed to try another solid state stage w/good (and easy) loading capabilities.  

Please don't bash - I'm looking for real experience with any/all of these, or something in the vein.  I have my priorities in the list, but am truly looking for quality input from the group.

Thanks in advance.
128x128dducat
gregm
3,405 posts
 
Nice TT you have there....Intriguing question: of the phonos I've heard -- EAR, both MFs, Clearaudio -- I'd be hard pressed to choose "the best one"!Here is how I would rate the ones I know with respect to clarity, low-level detail, and frequency extension and compared to an old FM Acoustics 122:
MF NuvistaEAR <--> MF MX with an upgraded PS (cannot choose between the two)
Clearaudio

This said, all of the above are excellent devices!Unfortunately, I haven't heard your current phono to compare.


big_greg
6,640 posts
 
Here are a couple more to add to your list for consideration in your price range.

Pass Labs XP-15 (solid state)
Manley Chinook 
boothroyd
365 posts
 
I might be biased to the Sutherland 20/20, but it is a midrange king that is a joy to live with. Add the optional Linear PSU and you could be set for the long run. 
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