Phone preamp question

😀 yeah…

But it is pretty cool that it worked out for you.

Many phono stages only have enough adjustment to load a cartridge, so it worked out well for you, and I suspect that it sounds just dandy.

Well done sir!

Additionally - it could potentially not sound not as good with a passive shoved in the middle, depending on how it is trying to drive the amp(s). The Bellari would have a better (lower) output impedance than a passive, so if it is working a champ, then maybe do not start second guessing it?

Just score it as a win.

@thecarpathian

the Bellari came with a custom and extremely robust separate power supply to use in place of the original, anemic wall wart. (Included)

I wonder if this has something to do with its performance?

Most definitely. High quality audio is always directly associated with high quality power supplies.

I have a Bellari VP129 that I use in a dedicated vinyl/headphone system and have always been shocked by how well it performs.  My only nit that I wish I had a fix for is when you power it up, it will send a "pop" to your amp so be careful to power it up before your amp.

These units have been heavily modified by many but the biggest bang for your buck is a better tube, then the power supply.

Most definitely. High quality audio is always directly associated with high quality power supplies.

Although I really doubt ^that^ is a truism, @thecarpathian could certainly try it and report back, which could give us some insight worth respect to the Bellari, but doesn’t say much about other gear.

These units have been heavily modified by many but the biggest bang for your buck is a better tube, then the power supply.

Yes, that’s next. The 12ax7 that comes with it is a ’Ruby’, whomever the heck makes that, which I’m certain can be improved upon. Going to get an nos low microphonics Telefunken from a guy close to me here in Connecticut. Too bad it’s not a 12au7 in the Bellari as I’ve got many really nice nos ones already.

@holmz , good idea! I’ll switch them out one of these nights and see if I can hear a difference. Just keep in mind we’re not dealing with real high end stuff here. I'll also report back on the tube switch out.