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A new phono pre, to replace my clearaudio basic

I have recently purchased a VPI Scout with a Lyra Dorian. My currnet phono pre is a Clearaudio Basic. Somehow I think the the TT deserves better. The rest of my system is a Rotel RC980bx, RB1070, CEC TL51x, Wadia 12. Interconnects are Cardas hexlink. Speakers are Impulse Aria SE.

I was thinking along the lines of a
Basic+ with accu supply
Bluenote Phono 2 MkII
EAR 834P MM/MC
Array PH-2 (is a lot more expenisive about 2k euro the rest are betweeen 1k and 1.3K)

So let me know what you think.
mordante
piedpiper
753 posts
 
Add the Heed Quasar to your short list and if you're looking for more transparency, you might want to consider more open cables.

Dealer disclosure.
jond's avatar
jond
5,880 posts
 
Given the rest of your system you really should consider upgrading one or both of your Rotel pieces before upgrading your phono amp. The Clearaudio is ok for now and I really think the rest of your system deserves higher quality amplification. I would do the linestage first, maybe even find a full-function unit, I suggest tubes, then you solve two problems at once. Happy listening!
drummermitchell's avatar
drummermitchell
262 posts
 
You might want to check out ALLNIC,1200,1500, Tubes
tiger
313 posts
 
Buy my Audio Research PH3SE, which is listed. Just better and it gives you room to grow in both TT and cartridge.
restock
831 posts
 
I agree with Jond's response - you could probably get more improvement upgrading the Rotel first. You may also consider some full function preamps to go with a new amp.

As for phono alone - the combination of JLTI phono and Lyra is one the best I heard so far. The EAR isn't even close.
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