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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
sksos1
387 posts
 
The SPA-II/2 has been out for a while now and we are behind in orders.

(Dealer disclaimer)
petermax
30 posts
 
A very small company so it is not easy to become well known :-)
proftournesol
15 posts
 
I don't own one as I have a Strain Gauge, but by far the best phono stage I've heard by a big margin is the fairly recent RCM Theriaa. Little known outside Europe but amazingly good
moonguy
148 posts
 
I really like the Simaudio 610 Evolution Series I just got that replaced my Zesto Andros. The 610 will be with me long term.
lohanimal
659 posts
 
Have you bought your ultimate phono stage, or are you still looking? I only ask this because there comes a time when you simply have to commit and buy. I heard the top of the range all KSL system where the speakers were wired with either KSL or Audio note cable - I recall that it had had rave reviews by Roy Gregory on HiFi plus - whose opinion was very relieable for about the first 4 - 5 years of the magazine. I absolutely hated the whole system - very syrupy sweet and soft. Likewise I heard the full Zanden sytem powering some Avalon Speakers (which I have heard in other systems) and again soft and lacking drive IMHO. At the other end of the spectrum there is the original Tom Evans Groove that I tested in my system a number of years ago, and I absolutely hated it. I spoke to Martin Collums once and he told me that this search for the single ultimate is difficult becassue we are sensitive to different aspects of sound - some are timing sensitive (like me) so infinite baffle speakers/electrostats for me -others are frequency sensitive so supertweeters for them...
As this is a forum you will and have received several opinions that are all valid, and help provide good suggestions.
For my part I was very impressed with the Whest Reference, whilst I do not dislike valves, with the exception of VTL's they always have a certain sound that adds a golden sheen to the sound which I find not to reflect real live sound.
I am told that the all time greatest solid state phono stage is the 'air dialectric' mares - which became the Connoisseur and is regrettably no longer manufactured - rare as hens teeth, but snap one up they are offered for sale - you won't lose a penny on re-sale
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