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Phono preamp with best mid bass

Let me explain my ideal sound and see if you guys have any suggestions. I realize speakers and and every other things contributes but looking for a phono that leans naturally toward the sound I’m looking for. 
 

I like a strong mid/upper bass that is highly articulated. Highs that are not overdone and natural. Sub bass is not as important for the music I listen to but what’s down there I prefer punchy rather than big. Natural mids that are well defined. Detailed but not to an extent that compromises robustness or gets too analytical. 
 

Been looking at the tube models. Rogue Ares looks intriguing as they mention some of the traits I am looking for in the reviews I’ve read. 
 

thanks

mofojo
mofojo OP
2,304 posts
 

Totally agree with all the tips. I have a good lead on a Rogue Ares 2 for a pretty good deal I may jump on. We shall see may pick it up tomorrow after thinking on it for the night. The MM phono input on my MF A1008 does not have much gain. I would rather play through my tube integrated but I’m using the phono out of the MF and I can’t get the volume I need. I’ll update if I buy the Rogue after a few days. Demo model so prob has some hours on it. 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,315 posts
 

That Rogue piece will definitely be an upgrade over the built in phono! Let us know. 

mofojo OP
2,304 posts
 

Well ended up buying an open box Rogue Triton 2 for a pretty good discount. I don’t think it was really even open box but who knows. Decided based on price and the fact I plan to use a tube amp that the ss might be a better choice. On another thread a guy mentioned he has the Ares and the Triton and used the Triton for rock and the Ares for acoustic and jazz. I’m definitely more in the former camp.  

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,315 posts
 

I really liked the phono stage in the Rogue RP-1 preamp that I had. Pretty safe to assume the Triton II will be a vety good phono amp. Let us know!

mofojo OP
2,304 posts
 

So far very happy camper about 2 hours in. Immediate improvement across the board. Not even burned in yet. Volume and dynamics have went up a few orders of magnitude. So much more articulate. Slight metallic sheen on the treble is gone as well. 

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