I was really impressed with Hagerman value after I bought a Piccolo head amp from them to replace a step-up transformer that was introducing some noise. Dead quiet and no change in sound (the phono stage I use was a $5000 unit when new).
Phono Preamp upgrade
New to vinyl playback but have some equipment that I'm really enjoying and others I'd like to consider upgrading.
My current set up is:
Audio Research VSi55 tube amplifier
Kef LS 50's
Pro-ject Debut Carbon w/ Ortofon Red & upgraded acrylic platter.
Schitt Mani phono preamp.
I'm happy with my amplifier and speakers but am curious about trying out different cartridge's, including MC. I would like to upgrade the TT, but am thinking of starting with the phono preamp. I'm looking at the following:
QHW 'The Vinyl'
Dynavector P75
Sutherland KC Vibe
All can be had for under $1k which I'm comfortable with paying and I've found retailers for all that allow returns so it's possible to order all 3 and have them at the same time to hear them in my system.
They all have multiple settings for MM & MC cartridges, so should be able to handle different cartridges down the road when I upgrade my TT.
I've read positive reviews about all. Do 1 or 2 stand out considerably above another? Or is just getting all of them and picking my favorite the best option? Any other that I should consider?
Thanks for your responses and advice!
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- 19 posts total
For a phono stage I would recommend a used Audio Research PH… as high a number as you can afford. I have owned PH 2, 2se, 3se, 5 (?), 8, and now a Reference 3. There is a substantial market and you will be getting a real audiophile piece of gear… well, you know, It’s audio research.
Rega are very popular and well respected. I had one many years ago and a friend has one, never did much for me. Didn’t have much bass, didn’t seem to be very quiet… but they get great reviews, so beats me. I would consider Clear Audio or a used VPI… put a couple grand into a VPI (non-suspended) and you are going to have an amazing table (tremendous bass, quiet, flexible arm.). Cartridge choice is going to depend on the table and the kind of sound you want. |
+1 @millercarbon I was going to chime in but you beat me to it. |
- 19 posts total