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Rega TT-PSU or new phono stage ?

I'm currently extremely happy with my new Rega P3-24/Exact2 combination, being driven through the built-in phono stage of my Rogue Audio Cronus integrated amplifier. The high output of the Exact 2 cartridge seems to match nicely with the 35 dB gain of the Rogue phono stage, and the whole set-up is singing some beautiful music (see my "System")

The next time I have an extra $375 laying around, what's the best "next step" .....should I buy the Rega TT-PSU external power supply or a comparably priced outboard phono stage and interconnect ? Let me hear some ideas from those of you who know what's going on.
Thanks a lot & Happy Listening.
adam18
cjnolan
27 posts
 
I have the same deck (Ortofon 2m Black cart). I agree with these guys, the TTPSU upgrade was not a subtle upgrade. I don't think you're going to substantially better your internal preamp in the $375 range. I'm not a fan of tweaks, but I also recently installed the Groovetracer subplatter on my P3-24. The stock platter is pretty badly out of round. The Groovetracer is perfect. This had a very similar effect to the TTPSU, better all around.
learsfool
1,215 posts
 
Hi Adam - definitely go for the TT-PSU. However, if you just have to try another phonostage, I can highly recommend the Bellari VP129 that matches very nicely with my P5/Exact 2 combo. You can find them used here for under $200. I would say this is the only phonostage in that price range worth messing with, unless you went the DIY route, say Bottlehead or something like that. I have not heard those, but I am curious about them.
adam18 OP
670 posts
 
Thanks a lot guys.....it seems as if the TT-PSU will be my next purchase.
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