2. amps-preamps
  3. 172742-168714

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!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

128x128boywondr84
ghdprentice
7,179 posts
 

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.

millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 

Right, I had PH3SE, $2500 back in the day, at 20 years old it sold for $1k, probably find one under $900 today. Don't know what you would find for $900 today though but that would be one fine phono stage.

jc4659
562 posts
 

+1 @millercarbon  I was going to chime in but you beat me to it.

millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 

Great minds, etc etc.

tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,986 posts
 

why jump the shark on a phono pre…before you know how much gain you need ? i agree with @big_greg  get a better table / arm / cart@bkeske gave you a great hint on a SOTA. Find a nice Sapphire with a Sumiko or Jelco on it, add an Ortofon Black or equivalent $ Soundsmith … and then mess around w phono stages. You have a great amp and revealing intimate speakers…you are well on the way. have fun, enjoy the journey. Btw i have heard the Sutherland and the DV both are super quiet, dynamic and neutral and pair well with ARC tube gear.

Jim

More to discover