Best phono pre amp for Lyra Helikon

I'm using the Helikon and a standard BAT VKP10, with cartridge loaded at 100R. Sounds great and the BAT can be acquired inexpensively in the used market.

Dave

There is a used Herron Audio VTPH-1MC on Agon for $2,099. I have had a VTPH-1MC since 1999 and have been very happy with mine. Just had it upgraded at the factory to the latest revision.

The Herron is FET/Tube hybrid so you get the best of solid state and tubes - neutral, realistic - with 66dB of gain.

Nilthepill: First I would like to know the model of your Classe preamp.
Second, I can´t understand why you already put a 2-4K budget for your phonopreamp that you want to match to your analog rig that it is in the 15-18K when the phonopreamp is the most important/critical link on the analog chain.

For you can really know why you already invested those 15-18K on your analog rig you have to have a really good phono/line preamp ( integrated if you find it ) and in my opinion you can't really do it between that budget range.

Now, I think that your today analog rig is a very good one and if you have it is because you really care about the quality music sound reproduction, right?. That's why you need that " non budget " phono-line preamp.

Of course, you can buy what you decide in your budget. No problem it is only an opinion.

+++++ " I am looking for realistic lively sound on neutral side. " +++++

Your priorities preclude the use of tube electronics, I think that you can be right on target with SS electronics.

Regards and enjoy the music.

Raul.

Raul,
The Classe pre-amp I have is CP-45 that works great for my CD source. It has phono board, but I have found a not a great one. The Phono I have for upstairs small system is Jadis DPMC and it is dream in that system (Jadis Orchestra Ref,Dunlavy IV, JD3 cd player). I should pobably try out the DPMC in my main system when I get the La Luce to check How tubed phono inteacts with solid state. I am so happy with DPMC that that is wants me think tubed phono for downstairs system.

I don't quite get what you are trying say in the last 4 paras. Are you saying that I should be getting solid state phono and that budget may not be enough?? Thanks.

Dear Nilthepill: +++++ " Are you saying that I should be getting solid state phono and that budget may not be enough?? " +++++

Yes, at least for do justice to your analog rig.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.