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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
twb2
129 posts
 
"What about the Audio Research REF PH2SE"- Mbovaird

INHO, this is indeed one of the great ones. Night and day difference from my previous best, the Aesthetix Rhea.
rsf507
2,346 posts
 
I got the NVO PSA-One and couldn't be happier! Jeff Day has said it's the best he has ever heard in his own Blog and in his review of this unit in Positive Feedback. Try and have a listen yourself, there may be some very pricey used phono stages on Agon once heard!
no_regrets
543 posts
 
Rsf507,

Does your NVO use step up transformers?
What kind of gain does it have?
What phono stage did it replace for you?
Have you ever compared it with the Herron?
What cartridge are you using?

Sorry for the 20 questions!
rsf507
2,346 posts
 
-No step-up transformers
-50/60 MM/MC roughly
-Parasound JC3 (really didn't like, noisy yes even though it was SS and very lean sounding..what was I thinking!!!!)
-No
-EMT

You have 15 more questions to reach your 20!
no_regrets
543 posts
 
Thanks for the info Rsf507. I'll have to give more thought to this so that I use my next 15 most wisely lol.

But seriously, something like this maybe right up my alley as my Benz Ruby ZH has .7 mV output and 80 ohms internal impedance and therefore not the best match with most step up transformers.
My curiosity has now been peaked!
More to discover