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Upgrading phono stage

Hello all,

I have a modest system that I have been adding and changing in small increments. I am using a Rogue Audio Sphinx V2. I love the sound of this integrated especially for the money. I am wondering how much I have to spend on a seperate phono stage to get a marked improvement from the built in. I have read that many think the built in phono stage for the Sphinx is quite good. I have zero experience with outboard phono stages. The prices are all over the place and I would like to spend under a $1000 but if that is not enough to make a big change then I will wait and go bigger in the future. I am using a Ortofon 2M Blue at the moment.

Thank you
cpdkee
rsf507
2,314 posts
 
If you can find a used or demo Gold Note PH10 I think you will be impressed
djspinner's avatar
djspinner
60 posts
 
Doesn't Rogue Audio have an upgrade program for the Sphinx?  Don't hold me to it, but I thought I read that the V3 phono was a good step up from the V2 version.  If you enjoy the Sphinx, I would look at upgrading to V3 as well your cartridge, a 2M Black or a high output MC (Dynavector, Hana, Benz Micro), whatever pairs well with your tonearm.
mulveling's avatar
mulveling
1,895 posts
 
The Rogue Ares Magnum is a great sounding stage (and far better than any of their built-ins), but for only $1100 the Hagerman Trumpet MC actually beats it. I'd recommend stretching for that; it's possibly the last phono stage you'll ever need or want. 
4krowme's avatar
4krowme
542 posts
 
Man, I can really empathize with all of this. I called it TT Hell. First I had to decide on a TT. Ended up with a Project 2Xperience and AKG Cartridge. Ok, so far, but then, like you, what was going to be the best phono stage for me? I got two in line. First an inexpensive Vincent unit for $250. It is what I will use until I complete my build of a completely different level of phono pre. But will that be decent  when complete? If not what direction to go is not so clear. Too bad you can't try it before you buy it. 
vinylshadow
490 posts
 
Vertere Phono-1. MKII version.

Around $1000. With so many gain, resistance and capacitance settings. Good power supply.

It hits way above its weight. And I just ordered one.

Get an upgraded power cable with it.

Vertere does not as of yet have a big footprint in The U.S.. In Canada some. Read reviews. Ain't one that isn't glowing.
https://www.vertereacoustics.com/phono-preamps
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