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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
audiofun
799 posts
 
AMR PH77 with Bendix Red Bank 6900 tubes in the output being powered (currently) with a PS Audio P600.., simply mind bending.

Honorable mention goes out to my former Graaf GM70 and believe it or not.., (I can just see the looks on peoples faces :).., the iFi iPhono when really run in and sitting on the right vibrational isolation can be stunning and I mean "keep up with my former Graaf GM70 (which had a $1K worth of Amperex/Mullard/Siemens tubes installed) stunning". The Graaf had more bloom as you would expect but as far as speed, clarity, weight and overall character they were basically tit-for-tat.

The PH77 is in another realm altogether.
pani
1,219 posts
 
Naim Superline with Supercap psu. An end of the road phonostage for a very reasonable cost.
hamburger
132 posts
 
Pani, what are the top 3 phono amps that you have used regardless of price? I think you are very experienced with many analog gear. Thanks
rsf507
2,350 posts
 
A good buddy just placed an order for the new NVO se phono unit and there's almost a 3 month wait! They must be doing something right.
pani
1,219 posts
 
Pani, what are the top 3 phono amps that you have used regardless of price?

Allnic H3000
Avid Audio Pulsare II
47 Labs phonocube
Shindo Masseto (Internal phonostage)
Einstein Turntable's choice

Quite a few more. All the ones I have listed are very good and to me they make very good music.
The Naim Superline just beats them by miles! It is a terrific combination of Dynamics, openness, transient response and tonality. You do not miss the typical analog organic quality in the mist all the other things it does well. Music sounds vibrant and extremely communicative.
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