2. amps-preamps
  3. 184170-171131

Suggestions for Phono Preamp

I'm interested in a decent phono preamp in the $1,000 area code (plus or minus a few hundred) for my Rega Planar 3 and I have a dynavector 20x2l mc cartridge to work with a tube amp which has both rca and xlr inputs. 

Here's the thing. I really don't like those tiny switches, especially when you have to open the preamp to get to them. Also, I hear that it is best to play around with the gain but how do you do that if changing the settings is a pain in the rear?

There are some preamps with the knobs for settings but they almost always are in the back and, again, that drives me crazy. Why can't the settings be in the front so you can easily access them and make changes/adjustments so you can actually hear differences? 

Anyhow, if anyone has suggestions, I'd much appreciate it.

dz13
crustycoot
641 posts
 

I just got a Pro-Ject PhonoBox DS3.  It has balanced and unbalanced I/O, front panel switches for Gain, fixed or continuously variable R, and C.  Totally convenient for all parameters. I’m using it balanced in from a new Thorens TD1600 with a new AT-OC9XML.  I find 640 Ohms sounds best with my rig. 

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,797 posts
 

I recently picked up the Sutherland KC Vibe.   Great sounding preamp,  built like a tank.  

woots's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
woots
292 posts
 

Check out the Vertere PHONO-1 MKII L.

Woots

stereo25
4 posts
 

The Sutherland tz vibe has no switches it’s fabulous sounding 1400.00 it’s only for mc cartridge it’s based on the loco preamp and has a beautiful sound stage. 
i bougtht it last month and it continues to blow me away. 

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,797 posts
 

I was really surprised how great the KC Vibe sounds.    Quality is high, I did expect that with Sutherland.   It will accommodate MM and MC.    Five gain settings from 40 to 60dB.    Entry level, but doesn't sound like it is,  it's that good

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