K&K Phono

I've not used the Lehmann black cube, so I cannot comment on it. I own a kandk using the 6n1p tube and I really enjoy it. I feel it is a great value and Kevin is very helpful. I used to own a modified EAR834P and the KandK phono stage is much, much better in my setup. I feel it is at least comparable to my friend's rhea in quality - of course it is a different flavor. Highly recommended.

Thanks for that...sounds like it was up against pretty good competition :)
Any thoughts on what its strengths are?
b

I have owned one for several years. It is phenomenal.
Get one and never look back.
I have to imagine you would have to spend many multiples of its asking price for any real improvement.

The best attribute of the K&K is that it is extremely quiet. The SE version which I had exhibited exceptional bass and was very clear on the top end. Not lush IMO, but leaning more towards the neutral side. If you get the version that allows you to roll tubes you have the benefit of tailoring the sound somewhat, although I believe the 6N1P is the best tube to use in it.

The most recent iteration of the K&K uses the 6h23p-eb/6922/E88CC. I have the Maxxed-out version (Cardas caps, Lundahl LL1931 SUTs) of this phono stage, and enjoy it considerably. It is extremely revealing of what is fed into it, very quiet and transparent. If you are looking for euphonic replay of vinyl, I would look elsewhere.

-Richard