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Stand out phono stages

This topic has been started before by others and myself as well, maybe too many times, but it is worth revisiting since the source is so very important!
So far I have had the pleasure to enjoy two worthy phono stages: the EAR 834p and the JLTI.
I have to admit they are spectacular. Obviously the record and all the equipment downstream play a role in the sound heard. In some cases I prefer the JLTI and in other cases the EAR. But neither out do the other dramatically.
What phono preamps outshine others by a big margin, those that can be considered the last phono preamp ever needed.
pedrillo
soundlistening
26 posts
 
Over one week end with a good fiend we compared the Zanden, Boulder, Kondo, Lamm phono-stages. The clear winner was the Kondo for all the 6 ears that attended this very exceptional session. I would also add the EMT139stb with its PS unit firm Van Vliet in NL. I know this phono fitted to an EMT 927; very good indeed with the possibility to switch mono/stereo and also curve selection; NARTB, DIN, RIAA and plat.
So Kondo and EMT 139stb
11flat6
55 posts
 
hi Soundlistening,

was wondering if you could elaborate on yr phono stage shootout?! what cartridge did you use, & in what ways was Kondo M7 Phono superior over the others? did the M7 contain stock tubes?

i'm considering getting a 2nd phono stage. 2 of the units you've mentioned are on my shortlist. appreciate any insight. thks in advance.
dcarol
62 posts
 
My new Whest Audio MC REF V MK4. By far the very best stage I have had the pleasure of having in my system - and believe me I have had a lot!

The unit is dynamic, detailed, has space and freaky reality and is utterly MUSICAL! and also works amazingly with the Ortofon A90, a match made in heaven.

4 thumbs up for the Whest.
bpoletti
1,553 posts
 
I heard the following system yesterday: Herron VTPH-2, Herron VTSP-3a, Herron M-1, Herron speakers, VPI Classic 2 and AT-OC9MLII.

I have heard nothing better, nothing that even approaches this set-up. Not even close.

I can't say that the VTPH-2 made all the difference, but it was an integral part of the system. I was shocked with what it did with only an AT-OC9.

Keith Herron isn't at CES or T.H.E.Show this year due to an injury. Too bad others don't get to share this listening experience.
oregonpapa's avatar
oregonpapa
4,867 posts
 
I have 45 hours on my new ARC PH-8. This is a must audition piece if you're considering a phono in this price range. Fantastic!
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