Recommendations for MM Phono ~ Tube or Solid State

In fact, the bipolar transistor that Raul et al use in the MC gain stage is out of production and was not replaced by anything as good or better for the purpose, probably because transistor evolution is not motivated by the design and build of phono stages.

@lewm to be clear, Raul had nothing to do with the engineering.

IMO, the one thing that SUTs bring to the table is immunity to the RFI that LOMC cartridges otherwise generate. SUTs simply don't have the bandwidth so they block the RFI. If your phono section has troubles with RFI being injected directly into its inputs (and many do, judging by all the phono sections out there with 'cartridge loading' switches on their front panels) The SUT seems really nice.

But I've found that if the phono section is immune to the RFI and otherwise has the gain needed, it will simply be more transparent. Transformers inherently introduce distortion and bandwidth limitations, usually having less bandwidth than the LP itself.

Btw, our ears are the worst tool to make precise comparisons, that " your ears will tell you " is full of subjective with no objective single parameters it's only: " I like it " and that's all.

We shall have to agree to disagree. For what shall I have gained if I have a system that is "perfect" in theory and I don't like it? I listen to music for pleasure, and any equipment I use is in the service of the music. If that makes me a music lover rather than an audiophile to you, so be it. I still appreciate your contributions here.

Atmasphere, I know that Raul is not the engineer of the Essential phonopreamps, I never felt the need to point that out. But I think he is the motive force behind their existence and the design philosophy (dual mono, balanced circuit, very clean PS, etc).  Nor has Raul ever claimed to be an EE or a designer of the gear.  I also "feel" that the 3160 is the first SS phono/linestage that ever made me forget I am listening to SS. Dare I say it's very similar in SQ to my modified MP1 (which might upset Raul but which I mean as a compliment). I love them both. As you know, this is coming from a tube OTL guy. This is purely a subjective judgement made driving my modified Atmasphere amplifiers into my modified Sound Lab PX845s. Granted also that I have never had an uber-expensive SS preamplifier in my home system.

@lewm  : Btw,I I know that SUT's sounds good ( I never posted that are really bad. I still own SUT's. ) but what I'm saying is that SUT is not the optimal solution for MUSIC cartridge sound reproduction, active high gain phono stages are way better.

R.

“active high gain phono stages are way better.”

@rauliruegas

While I understand your preference for active high-gain phono stages and recognize the strengths you’ve highlighted, I believe it’s important to acknowledge that audio reproduction is highly subjective. SUT’s may not align with your experience of optimal sound, but they can offer unique qualities that others might prefer.

“optimal solution for MUSIC cartridge sound reproduction”

Our choices in gear and music are deeply personal and rooted in individual preferences, which doesn’t make us less capable of determining how music should sound—it just reinforces the idea that music reproduction is subjective. ‘Optimal’ is not a universal standard but rather what aligns with our personal vision of musicality. Some prioritize detail and accuracy, while others value warmth and emotional engagement. In the end, it’s about what moves us, not adhering to a singular definition of perfection.

While I appreciate your willingness to contribute, but I often find your approach a bit rigid and leaning heavily on the same perspectives. When someone seeks guidance, it’s crucial to explore diverse perspectives rather than defaulting to familiar responses.

When you post next time, keep in mind; encouraging exploration and informed decision-making helps everyone find what works best for their individual systems and musical preferences. A more open-minded approach could foster richer discussions and help others discover the best solutions for their unique needs.