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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
pops
2,274 posts
 
03-27-13: Pavpet
The absolute best phono stage bar none is the wyetech labs , fits any criteria that you need

Thanks Pavpet.....what else is best....cable, cartridge...please tell me so I can buy them.
palasr
526 posts
 
Ask, Ebm - he'll tell you in less than one sentence 'dude'.
kiddman
341 posts
 
Ypsilon is the best I've heard of the 25 or 30 I've had through. Forces you to a transformer though. Choise of that is a whole additional peeing contest.
rkmoyle
17 posts
 
In my humble experience I go with the Asthetix Rhea. Being a tube unit it seems to convey so much of the music by puuling out the heart and soul of the material that keeps listening for hours and hours with no listen fatique. Very little click and pop from records regardless of age. The most difficult part of determining what phono stage is "better" really comes down to whether one is dryer and analytical while the other is warmer with more mid range. The Rhea is good that I'm saving nickels and dimes for the signature upgrade. After all is said and done I truly believe that a tube based unit is the key. It all comes down to your ears and you hear and what you like to hear.
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
I'm putting the finishing touches on a review I am writing about the Liberty B2B-1 phono stage, which I have been home audiotning for the better part of a month now in both solid state and tubes systems, but it should be seriously considered as it is a very fine phono preamp. Stay tuned for a full review.
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