2. analog
  3. 1221359567

vinyl-only setups

I'm wondering about the type of setups that some of you might be using in a vinyl-only situation?

I originally intended for my vinyl setup to be a headphones-only affair, but it has since taken on a life of it's own. Now I rarely listen to cd's on the system that was the "main" setup in my living room.

I've been successful at running a Musical Fidelity X-LPSv3 directly into a Sony N55ES power amp that has it's own attenuator. I'd like to upgrade these pieces, but would like to keep the setup simple. I like the idea of having a phono-pre directly driving a power amp. I doubt that I would use need of the inputs available on a line stage/preamp/integrated.
roblanger
roblanger OP
117 posts
 
Thanks, Norman

It seems that the this kind of setup would limit the number of gear choices that are available. Not many phono preamps have attenuators. They also may not have adequate output to properly drive a power amp.

I just might end up going with a tube integrated - even though I don't need all of the inputs - and run my phono pre into that.

I don't own an Open Reel deck, but it sounds like fun :)
johnnantais
621 posts
 
The EAR 834P comes with a volume control, and sounds excellent.
roblanger OP
117 posts
 
Would the EAR 834P w/volume control have enough output to drive a power amp properly? I guess that it would depend upon the input sensitivity of the amp. My X-LPS will drive my Sony power amp, but probably not as well as a true preamplifier.
johnnantais
621 posts
 
I don't know the specs, but I drove many amplifiers using the EAR as a stand-alone unit, once I rolled the right tubes in it sounded very dynamic and exciting. Would very likely be a considerable step up over the X-LPS too, it's dead quiet and does MM/MC.
roblanger OP
117 posts
 
Johnnantais -

I strongly considered looking at the EAR, but I'm not sure that my current power amp would do it justice. At the moment, I'm looking at a tube-integrated as being the simplest (cost effective) solution.

When I do decide to upgrade the Phono-Pre, the EAR will definitely be on my short list.

Thanks to all that posted or e-mailed replies :)
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