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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
6,639 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. 
varyat's avatar
varyat
145 posts
 
Tron Convergence is tough to beat at this price point but does not give you the flexibility to change loading values. If that is not an issue for you, then a worthy audition for sure.
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