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Phono Stage That's not Schiit

I purchased a Rega P3 with their EYL2 cart installed - a big step up from my previous TT. I also picked up a Schiit Mani phono stage - hoping it would suffice - but I now know it's the weak point in my set-up. This is running through a Krell S-550i and N804s. I'm ready to upgrade the phono stage and have been reading threads here, but a lot of what is recommended is at higher cost then what I spent on the P3/EYL2. I don't anticipate upgrading the TT in the near future, but  the cart - yes. I'm hoping to find a phono stage for >$1k than will bring out the best of what I have. The  Pro-Ject Tube Box DS2 is one I'm looking at. I would prefer a warmer sound since the Krell is already cool-ish for me. I could go higher than $1k, I'm just not sure my rig warrants it. any suggestions would be appreciated.

 
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slaw's avatar
slaw
21,349 posts
 
OP,. 

Consider this period in your audio life as an opportunity to get the best you can afford in a phono stage. You'll not be disappointed in the future.
ghdprentice
6,957 posts
 
Yeah, I understand your problem. I struggled with inexpensive ones. I bought highly recommended ones from a few hundred dollars and kept doubling it. I was always shocked by how bad they were. I finally got satisfied when I bought an Audio Research PH6... I think it was. I was never even remotely happy with phono stages until they were in the multiple thousands of dollars. But, you’ll get there. Happily I now own a Audio Research Ref 3, a wonderful sounding component.
nlitworld
67 posts
 
I picked up a Project Tube Box S2 (not the DS2) a while back. Multiple gain and loading options available so matching to different carts is easy. Replaced the tubes with some Gold Lions, then bought a linear power supply to top it off. Now with that setup it definitely punches above its price range even if it seems like decking out a Honda to be a race car. I know you're looking bigger budget, but take the extra cash and spend it on the cart upgrade and a killer set of cables. Just my $0.02.
chicagoblue1977's avatar
chicagoblue1977
224 posts
 
Lejonklou. Simple wonderful. 
goofyfoot's avatar
goofyfoot
1,368 posts
 
I agree with statements regarding price point where phono stages are concerned. So I would stress buying a used phono amp and suggest doing that before anything else. For whatever reason, analogue/vinyl equipment costs a lot.
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