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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
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.
hamburger
132 posts
 
Hi Pani,
You mean the Naim Superline is your all time favourite over the rest despite them being very good too? Of your list, I am interested in trying the Avid Pulsare II soon. Thanks.
pani
1,219 posts
 
Yes the ones I have listed are all very good and I could live with any of them as the last one but the superline just beats them all by a margin that just cannot be ignored.
sksos1
388 posts
 
Wow I've listened to the 47 labs phonocube and it wouldn't even make my top 25! IMHO
audioblazer's avatar
audioblazer
325 posts
 
For those interested in Tom Evans Mastergroove Beware. Malaysia long term distributor paid him in full for 2 units while it was still in development stage 2011/2012. However he took the money , developed it , built it for sales elsewhere & while telling the distributor its still in development stage . Subsequently Mehran got involved & a unit was despatched. Till today 1 unit is still outstanding . As for buying thru Mehran , I believe it's probably safe if u make some arrangement in advance . Reliable is everything when you are buying expensive gears
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