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Looking for a phono preamp

As the title implies, I am looking for a phono preamp. My budget is under $200.

I've only recently gotten into hi-fi audio, and this is really my first vinyl experience. My overall system is best described as mid-fi, current specs are listed below:

Amp: NAD C372
Speakers: Sonus Faber Concertino
CD: Technics SL-PD8 5 disc changer
TT: Music Hall MMF5, stock
Cartridge: Shure M97XE

Also, has anyone used the USB-compatible preamps? They look interesting but I'm not sure if they're worth the premium.

And I know the changer is holding me back, so let's focus on the phono preamp.

Thanks,
Dave
d_gryger
narrod
1,064 posts
 
The Parasound Zphono and the Bellari 129 are good choices. I've used both and feel they each do a credible job for the money. Both can often be bought used and resold if you don't like them or upgrade to something more expensive.

Wendell
musicus53's avatar
musicus53
14 posts
 
I have a Parasoound Z-Phono which I use as a backup. I picked it up on Audiogon for $150 and think it sounds quite good. I lived with it for a month recently while my main phono pre was being repaired and didn't miss any of the basic LP experience. I believe it won some sort of award from The Absolute Sound, plus it has a phase reversal switch, which I actually found quite useful since out-of-phase recordings are quite noticable with my Quads. Recommended.

Don

t_bone
1,182 posts
 
You might look at Haglabs Bugle. You can dig around on Audioasylum for commentary/reviews.
audiojedi
225 posts
 
I haven't heard it myself but a lot of people over in the UK seem to think that the Cambridge 640p is the best option in your price range. I believe it does MM and MC which is a bonus as well.
slowhead
40 posts
 
Myself, I have the 640P. It can be had for $159 delivered on-line, new. We share very similar gear. I was pleased with it's performance at this price point. My first thought was to throw more dough at this piece, but I don't think my system justifies it. Other contenders in previous posts get good reviews as well. Check out past threads, plenty of info. on budget pre/phonos.
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