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Phono stage question

I have a Cary Audio SLP70 preamp (Circa 1993) with a phono stage. It uses two 12AX7 tubes for the phono stage. I recently upgraded my turntable to a Pro-Ject X2. The phono stage in my Cary is the only phono stage I have experienced. I think it sounds great especially with the new X2 spinning my vinyl. But as with most of us, I’m always thinking “Is there something better?”. I’ve been reading a lot about phono preamps. Mostly tube preamps in the $1000 range. But I’ve also read where the phono stage in the Cary is quite good. My problem is having nothing to compare it to. Are there phono preamps in the $1000 range worth considering? Other components in my system are Pass Labs XA30.8 amp and early 90s Chapman T7 speakers.
z32kerber
inna
7,193 posts
 
I would first upgrade tubes in your Cary unless you have already done so.
You would also need extra set of interconnects and probably power cord for separate phono stage. And you didn't say what cartridge you used.
And separate phono stage should match both electrically and musically with your Cary. It might be simple and might be not.
dover
2,189 posts
 
Hi,
  The CareySLP70 is actually a very good and musical preamp, and is not the weakest link. I would upgrade the turntable if you want best bang for the dollar. If you have just purchased the TT I would suggest asking Carey Audio what upgrades are available for the preamp. For a few hundred dollars they can probably deliver a nice upgrade package for the preamp. They actively advertise upgrade packages for older models.
This makes more sense than spending more on a separate phono when really the TT is limited.
ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62
2,878 posts
 
Just be aware that if you want to venture into low output moving coils, you will need a different phono stage or a step up tranny.

I had an SLP-98 back in the 90s and thought it was just ok. The AI Modulus 3a was a far better preamp with a better MM phono.

Oz
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