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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
himiguel's avatar
himiguel
152 posts
 
Audio Exklusiv P-2 from Germany is my vote. Constellation Audio is another I would like to audition.
davvie's avatar
davvie
81 posts
 
ASR Basis Exclusive...
pc48
5 posts
 
Have anyone heard of the Hanss PA30?
rkmoyle
17 posts
 
Two years I bought a new Asthethix Rhea. After all my reading and a garranteed return if not happy, I bought Asthethix tube phono pre-amp. Yup, a match made in heaven! Flawless construction, 8 tubes never need anything, no adjustments swapouts. It is a perfect match match for my Myabi 47 MC cartridge. This is connected to my SME 345 arm on my Oracle Delphi. And my pre amp is a Cary SLP-05 driving a PassLabs XA100. Monoblocs. Yes expensive I know, but, in my defense, after 45 years of compromizing with mama this it! I play album everyday and for the first time I bring one album after another and guess what? No noise, click, pops, nothin but music. The synergy is just right. NOW, while I have thought of it, I have not decided to spend another 2500 to send in my Rhea to have it upgraded to signature. Maybe I'm afraid to approach mama! Supposedly from reading they say it is well worth the investment. Then again, I still got to see my wife everyday! She's my investment of 42 1/2 years. No corrolation gentlemen!
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
Ah, the Rhea has ten tubes ;-)
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