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Dedicated phono-pre for MM only?

Hi All,
the subject of phono-pres, specifically 'adapted' to MM came up in some related postings.

IF, and only if, MMs are much to ones liking --- why spend your buck on some 'halve backed' 60dB plus, MC gain requirement, stage? Why not consider put the $$$ into a TOP 40dB gain stage of either SS or tube?

Raul had more thoughs on the subject as he mentioned before, and might share, why he knows that a TOP MM compared to MC stage circuit requirement might NOT be -one suit fits all-.

There could even be a nice argument to fit a tube gain stage only into an otherwise SS only system!?

Again, the $buck saved on the 20dB plus circuitry could be translated into the BEST circuit for an MM.
I realise, that most such stages were simply fitted inside some older TOP pre-amps, (e.g. Jadis...).
I have not come across a **dedicated** , current 40dB stage neither in nor outside a pre-amp.

Thank you,
Axel
axelwahl
tketcham
291 posts
 
To what level of "top" phono stage are you referring? The Graham Slee Reflex is a dedicated MM phono stage. (Yes, you can use HOMC cartridges with it but it's designed specifically for MM cartridges.)

Tom
tketcham
291 posts
 
Should have done my homework... The Reflex isn't even in the same league as a Jadis.

But for those on a budget, I guess the Reflex is one (dedicated MM stage) to consider.

Tom
jb0194
476 posts
 
The new Bottlehead Eros kit is quite something for $1000 professionally assembled!
dodgealum's avatar
dodgealum
1,405 posts
 
This question is something I tried to get at in a prior post. I, too, am interested in hearing about really top flight phono preamps that are designed for high output coils or moving magnet designs. The benefits would be analagous (sp?) to going with a really high quality monitor that doesn't try to plumb the deepest bass. In other words, the designer saves the money that would need to be invested in a larger cabinet, additional drivers, internal bracing, ETC in order to focus on getting superior sound within the 50hz and up frequency range. Surely someone has got to be making reference quality phonostages that are intended to be used only with high output cartridges--NO?
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