May I recommend Konus Audio Vinyle 300MC. Reach out to Colin @gestalt for in-home demo. I heard this phono for extended period and came away impressed by its sheer musicality and resolution. I am putting together my vinyl setup and this would be my phono with Raven GT2 Turntable / Stein Music Aventurin 6 Cart.
WhestTHREE signature phono pre vs. ModWright PH 9.0X
I've mostly got my phono preamp upgrade down to a shortlist shootout choice between the WhestTHREE and the ModWright PH 9.0X. They're pretty much at the same price point (the MW is ~$300 more than the whest, give or take).
What I listen to mostly: Jazz & Jazz Fusion primarily (I do have things from many other genres, but want to tune my system to Jazz since that's 95% of my listening on vinyl).
What I like: wide soundstage, incredible mid-range, detail, some warmth
What I don't like: clinical!
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There are a lot of passionate Whest owners out there all over forums raving about them, but I've also seen people mention that they can be a little on the clinical side.
The modwright has less hands-on info out there that I could find, but the few things I could find review it very highly.
If owners of either could comment on their experience and some objective pros / cons of either, it would be helpful!
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I did have someone recommend the Gold note PH10 to me some time ago, and while it is at a lower price point, I've seen a lot of mixed reviews.
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@lalitk Interesting. I've never heard of that one. Doing a quick look, it's quite a bit over budget. Looking to stay around the $4500 mark at max with a little wiggle room here and there. |
I have not demoed the Whest or the MW but I have done a home demo of the Gold Note PH-10. I was looking for pretty much the same sound signature you’re seeking. The GN is a fantastic phono stage, very well built, excellent UI and great detail without brightness. In the end, it wasn’t quite the sound signature I was looking for and I’m guessing that would apply to you as well. I would have no hesitation recommending the GN to someone who was seeking that kind of sound signature. I ended up with a used Aesthetix Rhea Signature and it does have what you’re looking for. I would highly recommend checking one out. Excellent service as well by their folks in California. |
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