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Need an Entry Level Phono Preamp

Well, it's been 22 years and I'd like to go back and spin some vinyl. I'm considering a Cambridge 640P and a Rega Fono for a Shure V-15 VMR on either an old Dual CS5000 or Thorens TD160. I was ready to buy the Bellari but the 60Hz hum problem I heard about here on A'gon scared me away. I just want to listen to my old records, not troubleshoot ground loops. Also considered tubes from an AES PH-1 and the new Pro-Ject Tube Box II. OK, let's through in the Jolida JD-9A for kicks. That's a price range from $169 to about $550 which is fine. Line Pre is a Bryston BP-25.

I welcome your comments and recommendations. Oh, I listen primarily to classical music. Someone has to keep it alive!

Thanks!
av2k
psychicanimal
1,738 posts
 
If Bryston makes a phono board for your pre that would be the most sensible (and direct) way to go.

With the money saved you can get a real good power cord for the pre, like the Absolute MKII (have it cryo'ed) and a nice set of cones (I use DH cones on my phono pre).

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neurods's avatar
neurods
8 posts
 
Dynavector P-75,without a doubt. It is only 595.00 and does better than any 1500.00 preamp out there. I just bought one with a Nottingham turntable. This thing is fantastic. JT
piedpiper
753 posts
 
By the Cary I meant the AES PH-1 you mentioned.
av2k OP
17 posts
 
Thanks so much for the feedback! Before I make a move I'll check to see what Bryston has in the way of a phono board.
psychicanimal
1,738 posts
 
Smart move. You eliminate the purchase (and shipping costs) of a chassis, power supply, interconnects, power cord, etc. Everything stays in place inside a well designed, ruggedly built, quality preamp. As a plus, the sonic signature stays the same you now have (and like).

My next suggestion? Start with a *nice* moving magnet cartridge and take it from there. I'm personally a big fan of older moving magnets, having a Sure V15 III, Audio Technica AT-15S and KAB modded Stanton Groovemaster. As a matter of fact, I'm sending Kevin of KAB a NOS Stanton Trackmaster I of the very early production runs I snatched in eBay ($54.95). It has half the coil windings of subsequent production runs and once revved up will deliver a performance rivalling $2K moving coils. Make this clear, that does not mean I don't like moving coils. I'm really fond of my Ortofon X5 MC and is among the best cartridges in its class. If your budget is entry level a Stanton 681EEE moving magnet will rock your world--guaranteed.

With psychic power and primal intensity,
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