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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
oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
I been frothing for a Decware ZP3, but with the tape tap option. If you’ve ever heard it, it’s pretty amazing.. One of the best playbacks I ever heard jacked directly into the tape recording and playback. You can do anything with that type of medium. It’s been a while but it is a nice ADDED option, some like Reel to Reel.. The vinyl side of decware is a good value for sure.. 60 watts, powerful..lot of options and kinda ZEN, ay :-)

Herron VTPH2, is a tinkers dream.. Talk about tube roll extravaganza.
I really like the Herron better if it just had a tape tap for playback.. I suppose, you could add it. I know there is a lot of neat things going on there, too. Man oh man, either or...

Regards
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liamowen
195 posts
 
Please add me to the list of folks recommending Pass Labs.  The now discontinued XP15 (which is what I have) is in your price range, is great with MC cartridges.  The XP15 does almost everything the XP25 did, except for you have dip switches on the back of the unit instead of dials on the front.  And, it can only accommodate 1 table at a time.  Along with my CJ tube amps and preamp, I have found the balance that's perfect for me.
aj523
373 posts
 
Sutherland 20/20 with the upgraded stand alone LPS. No BS. Shortest path. Dead quiet, and what someone posted above - optimized midrange king. But not tubes.
dducat's avatar
dducat OP
40 posts
 
Thank you, all for your fast input.  Lots to think about, for sure.  

I would have pulled the trigger on the Decware, but the lead time is 20 weeks!  I'm a patient guy, but not that patient. Hence, my broader search. 

I also added a ARC PH7 to the list to make it even more complex. 

That's why it's a fun hobby!
jp-2213
43 posts
 
+1 for the PS Audio Stellar Phono (Darren Myers Creation)
Trade in your current phono stage and it comes in under your limit, new!

I run the stellar, it’s fantastic, no tubes though
Just named Stereophile analog product of the year!

Best,
-JP
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