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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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ghdprentice
7,016 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
68 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
1,376 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.
sryeager
125 posts
 
I am very happy with a used Musical Surroundings Nova Phonomena.  I believe I got mine for about $600.  The rest of the chain is Soundsmith SMMC 1, Rogue Cronus Magnum II, and Ohm Walsh 4, so i’m not sure how resolving it is for minor phono stage differences in sound.
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