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Best Phono Stage

Hi all,

I need some advise on a really good sounding phono stage to go with MC turntable set up in the $5k or so bracket. I am completely new to vinyl and realise there a lot here in terms of arm/cart matching MC,MM and I think moving iron but if you could point me in the direction of some good sounding units I can investigate compatibility etc. I don’t own a table or cart yet. I was looking at the Zesto Audio 1.2.

My goal is a liquid engaging sound with deep tight bass and air and separation on top.

Thanks in advance.

Sean

128x128lance23
westcoastaudiophile
365 posts
 

Teac PE-505

cerrot's avatar
cerrot
1,700 posts
 

I went with the Allnic H-3000.  I upgraded from the Rhea.  The Rhea is a bit noisy (tube rush) compared to the Allnic.  The Allnic is dead silent - never heard tubes be so quiet.  

4krowme's avatar
4krowme
542 posts
 

Just to update a bit. A long while back, I did build Pete Millett phono pre that is designed with an LR RIAA equalizing stage. Basically, as far as sound is concerned, I have high regards for it. There is a hum problem that I caused along the way, and troubleshooting is not fun at all. I just want to play records. FWIW, when I replaced the IC chips with upgrades, the hum increased. 

 To repeat myself, I should have laid down more serious cash in the first place rather than cause myself incredible hassle building 2 kits, and buying 2 phono pres. Lessoned learned? Nah, I will do it again in some fashion not too far from now.

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