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.
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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+1 @millercarbon I was going to chime in but you beat me to it. |
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 |
- 19 posts total