What is the Phono stage you have finished with?

I have the ZYX Artisan, and I like it enough (despite it being the only SS gain component in an otherwise tube gain chain) that it is in no danger of getting 'upgraded' any time soon.

Heed Audio Quasar. Man does this one fly under the radar. It's wonderful.

I also use a ASR Basis Exc. and I have no idea where it went?! It was in my rack...now its gone. It appears ONLY after I turn the music off. The only other Phono pre that I like equally as much (just for its unique sound) is the JLTI (Vacuum State).

Good luck.

Spiro

I have a zyx artisan coupled with a universe
great sounding

only pre I'd consider upgrading to is the doshi
mega buck there

I was using the onboard phono stage on my Rotel RC-1082 preamp - was pleased with the performance until I TRIED a Graham Slee Era Gold Mk V. Made a sonic difference for the better. I had been researching the pluses of a seperate phono stage because I was curious what i was missing out on. My dealer (Sound World in Houston) was kind enough to allow me to demo the unit in my home. I have expereince better bass response, better soundstage and more air plus in is blacker between notes. Will be a good upgrade.