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Getting back into analog

It has been about 10- 12 years since I had a turntable in my system but I am going to change that now. My question is should I buy a preamp with a builtin phono or buy a outboard phono preamp? My current preamp is a CJ CT6, I think it is quite good but I am open to any suggestions.

Price range for a preamp ($4,000 - $8,000) new or used. If I keep my preamp $1,000 - $2,500 for a outboard pre.

I have not purchased a turntable yet but will soon.

Thanks, any suggestions would be appreciated.
bobheinatz
marakanetz's avatar
marakanetz
5,473 posts
 
What TT setup would you plan to build before you decide on preamp?
I prefer a full function preamp since it would save an extra wire run and rack space.
vectorsa
6 posts
 
Your Pre is a very good one. I have the CJ 15 PHONO STAGE. If you have the possibility to afford it (~3K$ used unit) you will have an excellent match combo units. Remember, as Marakanetz wrote to you, you will meed an extra wire (~500$) and rack space, but additional careful you could take in consideration if you are planning to use a very low signal output MC cartridge.
tbromgard
814 posts
 
My opinion is that you are far better off have a built-in phono section. Particularly in your price range.
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
Well I just sold my VAC Ren Mk2 which is a full function pre that would have been right in your price rang and has an outstanding phono stage that can accommodate MM and MC carts. Highly recommended. At the top of that range you might, if you are lucky and quick on the trigger, snag a Doshi Alaap which also is configured for MM and MC. The VAC has remote, tape loops, HT bypass and is better looking. The Doshi sounds better but the VAC is really very very good. For an outboard, maybe a Joule OPS or a Hagerman Trumpet?
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