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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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steverrino OP
17 posts
 
Thanks for all the great suggestions. A lot to consider. I appreciate the feedback. 
mr_m
1,900 posts
 
I also have a Schiit Mani and consider it the weak link.  
Just wondering if anyone has tried the QHW  "The Vinyl" phono pre from Spain. Michael Fremer raved about this inexpensive amp. $750.
hudsonhawk
137 posts
 
Dynaudio P75 is an incredible value and under $1k, even less if you get one used. Really flexible loading options, so it’s one that can stick around in your system for a long time. It was the component that lasted the longest in my system by far before finally getting replaced by a PS Audio Stellar last year.
lewm
13,094 posts
 
You wrote, "I'm hoping to find a phono stage for >$1k..."  Greater than $1K, in other words.  But I am thinking you meant to say "less than $1K". In any case, you got a lot of suggestions for units hovering around $1K in price.  Maybe that is because some others were as confused as me.  These days there is a plethora of good sounding phono stages for less than $1K.  To the list, I would add another, the iFi iPhono3.  I think the price now pushes the $1000 upper limit that I am assuming.  Look for Fremer's review on his blog or in S'phile.  He loved it.
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
op has gotten a lot of recommendations

i would suggest a lehmann as a no nonsense, very quiet and good sounding choice... not euphonic, just quiet, pure, with plenty of gain

parenthetically, i think hudson below means a DYNAVECTOR p75...  it is a good unit, especially with dynavector carts, but it can be a little finicky with noise
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