Phono Stage Upgrade


I have been reading through most of the threads and discussions related to phono stages and was struck by a comment on how one’s phono stage investment should be approximately equal to the spend on one’s turntable. 
 

I currently have the Sutherland Little Loco, which has been not given me any issues at all. However, with my current setup of a Palmer 2.5i and the Audio Orgami arm plus a Koetsu Rosewood Signature Platinum cartridge, I am wondering if I am missing out on the potential of this combination?

 I am definitely intrigued by the ARC 3SE and PH9, but am unsure of the interplay between these phono stages and my current cartridge and tonearn. I am not interested in having to recable anything and also read something about a quirky approach to power mains with ARC. I am running all of my gear using LFD mains and am quite happy with them. 
 

Finally, it is not entirely obvious where to actually purchase this gear as there is no one local to me and my two usual dealers (Gene Rubin and Fidelis) don’t carry ARC. I would love a recommendation as to a dealer I might contact. I will also keep my eyes open for a reputable used option. 
 

Thanks in advance for your help. 
 

 

128x128thr1961

 It isn't whether tubes, these or those, it is more about the implementation of the tubes. Price doesn't guarantee performance. But, considering your question, it would be good to know the truth for the sale of a used product. Instead, there are often catch phrases used to set you at ease of buying someone else's equipment.  Often times I will see-- "upgrading to new equipment", "I have too much equipment", "wife says sell", and my favorite, "going in a new direction." I certainly am not saying these are all tales to lead you on, but, is that the real reason for the sale?

 Lastly, when buying new or used, is there the option of return if you hate it? I wish that I had thought that through before wasting time and money. The power of impulse buying (even impulse from the past, "I have always wanted one of these) is great. Ok, now I'm done. Good luck.

For those waiting to hear how the story ended, I am sitting here listening to "Somethin' Else" through an ARC 3SE and liking what I am hearing from the start. I must admit that the unit itself sort of dominates the system, but I am looking forward to getting to know how it performs across the range of my collection. 

 

Thanks to all for your help and insights. Happy listening!

OP,

Congradulations. You will really be more impressed after a few hundred hours. Full break in 1,000 hours.