The best phono stage out there?


I have recently purchased a basis turntable and was wondering what analog lovers think is the very best phono stage they have heard . I currently use the Sutherland PhD and like it very much but have not really had an opportunity to audition other great phono stages. The cartridge I intend to use is the Dynavector XV-1S .
Thanking you for your opinions
ecka
I found the Aqvox to be an exceptional phono stage. It is solid state and provides a variety of options that will accomondate any cartridge. I recently switched from a Benz Ruby to Koetsu Urushi with out any problems. The Aqvox when connected through the balanced connectors automatically adjusts the load for the particular cartridge in use at the time. This is an excellent feature. But for those who like to play around with different load settings you can simply connect through the rca ports and have a blast. The Aqvox sells for less than 2,000 and well worth the investment. Have fun with your search. Herman
"For me it seemed to happen with music that had real drive like the Electric pieces from Casino by Al DiMeola remember being told that it must be production on record from dealer"

"Casino" is one of my faves, played it many times on the Allnic 1500, wonderful rendition. All I can say is that my impressions in my own system do not agree that the Allnic doesn't rock or muddles amplified electric guitars, just the opposite, they thrash loud and clear.
Cjfrbw
I am happy that you have not encountered the same issue, it was so frustrating as a really nice phono stage but very happy with what I got now
Johnjc,

I am sure you heard what you heard when you heard it, it just seems an unfair generalization about the component given my own experience in owning and using the unit for over a year.
Synergies can make or break particular components, even the best, so building systems with components that work in conjunction with each other is tough, as I have learned. It isn't always easy to figure out where the synergy, or lack thereof, comes from. Been listening to Sonny Sharrock on the H 3000, what a blast.

Happy listening!
I heard the Audio Valve Sunilda this weekend and it's quite impressive. Eye candy as well.

There's been other posts regarding their linestage called Eklipse (sp) but that was not available for audition.

Disclaimer: no financial interest