VPI Aries with JMW-10 need help

There are many choices, but do realize that the JMW, being a unipivot works best with cart's that are higher compliance Cu's. At least 12 dyne on the cart. My experience with the Aries/JMW 10 was excellent using the Dynavector 17D2MkII Karat, but since its a low output, youll need a phono stage with high gain, or a step up tranny like a K&K. You'll want at least 60db gain total

. The Dyna DV-10X5 HO, or DV-20XH would be good with no need for a step up device with a phono stage that supports about 50db gain. The Step up transformers like the k&K is sold for about $300 if you need one.

I used a ZYX Fuji-SH with 0.48mV output into a ARC PH3 SE with only 54 db gain, and it was more than enough. This combo will be slightly over your self imposed $2K budget..but sounds great on the Aries/JMW10, and exceptional on the newer Aries2.In fact the Dyna 17D2MkII sounds more complete with the Aries 2..just for reference.

If you want a tube phono stage..the ARC PH3 is great at its used price of~$800. A Nice SS phono would be the Bryston BP-1.5 at about ~1200 used. A ZYX Fuji from Sorasound(Mehran) for under $1500...or if thats a stretch..look at the R-100 at under 1K for sure. Even the lower ZYX line is a tremendous value for the price/performance, and mates very nicely with the 10 arm. Good luck.

I was using a Grado Reference with my Aries JMW/10. I thought it sounded really good. I would recommend this with the PH3 SE as mentioned above. As Kehut says though; if you can stretch your budcet to the ZYX you will be better off in speed, detail, and extension.

When I had a linestage, I had a MacCormack Phono Drive (not the micro) combined with a Shelter 501 Mk II.

Was happy with the results. with what I know now, I would probably throw in a cartridgeman isolater with it.

happy listening,

Many vintage preamps with phono.....go for a conrad Johnson premier 5 or 9. Classe DR series 5 or 6. Audio research 6B,8MRKII,10 or even the 11. SO many at great prices.