What phono preamp are you using?

Main system uses a Koetsu Urushi/SME V/ VPI TNT V into a Vendetta SCP2D.

Second system uses a Lyra Clavis/SME V/ Sota Cosmos/ into a Conrad Johnson Premier 15

You can pay ridiculous money for a phono stage today, but if you look around there are some excellent older models out there.

EAT E Glo Petit powerd by S Booster BOTW Mk2 with VAS Nova .4 and EAT Jo No 8 carts

Herron VTPH2A.  Nothing finer that I've found.  Great service.  

Audio Research PH-7 upgraded to the single rectifier power tube with a Lyra Kleos cart. Match made in heaven. 

@mbzmeister

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.... now I thought I’d try a Hagerman Trumpet MC. It’s still burning in but starting to blossom. I upgraded the power supply with SBooster and installed gold lion gold pin tubes. The goal is to get this phono stage sounding as good or better than the icon audio/Telefunken combo and it’s almost there.

Yep, I’ve had my Trumpet about 2 1/2-3 weeks, and it is really beginning to open up and sound great.

Interesting about your SBooster, I’ve heard others considering that as well. Did you get the 15-16V unit? As the Trumpet’s power wall wart supply is 15V, I assume so? And is there any concern that it can be fed 16V? Or can you pick between 15&16? I have a 16V LPS power supply sitting idle, but was concerned using it with the Trumpet feeding 16V vs 15V. I guess I could email Jim, but it is tempting to try, especially as I don’t use it any more, as it used to power my old phono pre.

Regardless, I’m using the stock tubes as well right now, and seems every day or so it sounds better.