Project Tube Box DS2 vs. Hagerman Audio Trumpet MC


I am currently using a Project Tube Box DS2 phono preamp. If you see my system, I love the tube sound and prefer over hyper detail and neutrality. However, I am not talking about extreme euphonics, loose bass and no sparkle at all. Modern tube sound is not like that. The vinyl setup is pretty decent, but recently I contacted Hagerman Audio Labs and Jim told me that the Trumpet MC is all tube amplification where the Project is tube buffer and the difference should be night and day. The Trumpet MC should blow the Project out of the water.

Given that the price difference is only $200 more for the Trumpet MC and Project is well made and is infinitely adjustable, do you agree with his assessment? Does anyone have experience with the Hagerman products or this phono in particular? He indicated his 30 day return policy is no strings attached, just pay return shipping which is no big deal as this weighs 3 lbs. However, I want to see if anyone has had the experience dealing with this company before.

Thanks in advance!
128x128dandaroy

Looking to upgrade my phono stage I have a tavish vintage phono stage.Would the hagerman audio trumpet be worth the upgrade from mine tavish phono.

Update: got it, love it. Went crazy on new and nos tubes for options and future proofing since I plan on having this for quite some time. 12au7 I got nos Sylvania’s and Rca pairs. 12ax7 I got a quad of telefunken smooth plates that are very smooth sounding and new issue gold lions, which respond better to acoustic guitar. Currently running a pair of each and while I haven’t critically compared, it sounds great to me!

I don't have any Tavish experience but the Trumpet has been a huge upgrade over my project tube box...

@orange5o

Fantastic! Glad you are enjoying the Trumpet, I love mine as well.

Happy and fun tube rolling! Those Telefunken smooth plates are something special.  

Enjoy the tunes

 

Just wanted to chime in and thank the Trumpet owners for spreading the knowledge. I am 32 days into my Trumpet and absolutely love the sound!

 

Coming from the Parks Audio Budgie the Trumpet is a whole new level.

db