2. analog
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Superb PHONO Preamp ?

There are now some very interesting Phono Preamps out there.
Sooner or later I am interested to buy one, beside my existing Stan Klyne 7 PX 3.5
I was very interested in the newest Design from
Aesthetix Io phono Signature Version.

Now I heard from 2 other units which caught my attenttion, the
Tom Evans Design " The Groove "
and from
Manley , the " Steelhead ".
I don't have much info about them - beside their Websites - but I heard some interesting things.

Is someone out there who owns one of these units or has compared one of these to others and can give a little info ?
I use always MC's, I prefer low output, that means, around 0.20 mV.
The Klyne can handle this WITHOUT ANY Problems, and I would like to have another Phono amp TO DO this SAME way.

These are all units which - I imagine -, will only be bought from REAL ANALOG specialists, so this info could be very interesting.

( Please don't write me stories from Linn, Audio Research etc. ,these are not in this class )
Thanks
Thomas
thomasheisig
fmpnd
481 posts
 
I am sorry for not answering the question directly but I thought I'd confuse you even more by letting you know that Lamm just a few days ago came out with a reference tube based phono stage the LP2 (retail around $7,000) that I just bought without hearing (they haven't let me down yet). You may want to add this to your short list.

The Aesthetix is a fine sounding phono stage (formerly owned one) but I haven't heard the Signature version which looks interesting. Good luck in your search. I'd be interested in hearing what you find out.
ljgj
955 posts
 
There is review of the Steelhead by Manley in the new Stereophile by Fremer - great review but costly - unbelievable amount of vesatility including no preamp needed in one mode. good luck- i have a plinius which is really nice.
tpsonic
1,092 posts
 
Thomas ,You forgot Lloyd Walkers' phono sections.If you are interested in a 30-day money-back guarantee contact me .For more info call Lloyd:610-666-6087 or www.walkeraudio.com .Good luck! Tom
mikelavigne
2,199 posts
 
Fmpnd, have you listened to the Lamm long enough to form an opinion of it verses the Aesthetix Io. I own an Io and love it but have considered a second power supply, the Signature version, or both. I would appreciate any feedback.

Another question would be why did you go away from the Io?

thanks,
thomasheisig OP
568 posts
 
To FMPND

... the story never ends ...........
Why did you sell the Aethetix ?
What cartridge do you use ?
Can you write something about the Lamm later ?

Thanks
Th.
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