Art Audio Vinyl one vs Sutherland PhD

I agree about the K&k, a near match to the Vinyl reference at $1500 against $4500 for the Art Audio, built by the same designer. It is quiet, detailed, excellent RFI rejection(a perpetual problem for me) and cheaper than both the units you mention. As an aside, Kevin will get the kit built for you for a total cost of about $1950

Another vote for the K&K. I have had mine for over three years now and absolutely love it. And you won't find a better person to deal with than Kevin Carter. He is a true genius and all around nice guy.

Oz

You might also look for a used Acoustech Ph-1 or Ph-1P. They are not battery powered but are designed and built by the same guy (Sutherland) that builds and markets the PhD.

I have heard a few complaints that the PhD is "not exciting" but I haven't heard it. So I don't know if that's accurate or not. I had an Acoustech Ph-1 and loved it.

The Ph-1 goes for about $650 used and the Ph-1P for about $850 used. The Ph-1P is the same design as the Ph-1 but with improved components.

If you care about those things, the Ph-1 is a Stereophile Class B rated phono stage and the Ph-1P is a Class A rated phono stage. The Ph-1P is still for sale new at $1,500.

David12,
With all due respect the K&K and Vinyl Reference are 2 different animals and far from a "near match". They share the same physical appearance but the similarities end there.

The Vinyl Reference uses a shunt regulated power supply as opposed to a generic design. The Vinyl Reference uses Caddock top of the line 1% metal film resistors throughout, top of the line Cardas caps, V-Cap teflon caps, and on and on. The K&K uses generic parts. The cost in parts of the power supply, caps, and resistors alone exceeds $1500.

I encourage you to call or email Kevin or Joe Fratus if you have any questions.

Disclaimer: Art Audio retailer

I'll chime in with a vote for the K&K as a great value and outperformer. It's dead quiet in my system and it makes beautiful music.. very unmechanical sounding. The selectable load switch is a convenient feature.

I've heard the Vinyl One and it's also very nice - exceptional soundstaging and lively dynamics.