2. analog
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Vinyl Front End Upgrade

I've been sitting on the sidelines without vinyl playback for far too long and am looking to get back in the game. I've got a VPI Scout/JMW 9/Dynavector 20XM (1mv version). I've got no phonostage since I sold my ARC SP16 and bought an LS26. The rest of the system is an ARC SD135 driving Daedalus Audio DA-1.1's through Empirical Design cables. I've spent the last few months listening to digital source material through my Esoteric X-03SE, saving my pennies toward a vinyl upgrade. My plan is to keep the Scout and work on a cartridge and phonostage pairing that will give me vinyl playback as good or better than what I'm getting on the digital side. I've got $3K to spend on new or used components. I'd appreciate some suggestions.
dodgealum
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
arc phono
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
4,944 posts
 
I second the ARC phono stages.
4musica44107
520 posts
 
ARC PH7 used or Nagra BPS new. The latter is cheaper and might surprise you!
walkelin
52 posts
 
I havce a ARC REF II Pre and considered a ARC phono stage. I have a solid state AMP and wanted to limit my exposure to tubes due to the ongoing support of tubes versus solid state. With that in mind I settle on a Pass Labs Xono which is solid state and mated very well with my ARC Ref II. You set it up plug it in and forget about as there is no off and on switch. They are availble on Audiogon for $2K not a bad price for a reference phono stage, you may want to ask around about them IMHO.
stanwal's avatar
stanwal
3,147 posts
 
I almost bought a Xono before I became a dealer again. I ended up with Dynavector , their 75 is a very good phono stage and exceptional for $750. There is an upgraded one on here for $525. Blue Circle also makes some very good ones. I have the 707, they make a version of it in a very cheap case for under $1000. Very good company to deal with. I have heard good things about the Asr basic stage from Germany, they show up used for around $1000. Change the standard feet of the Scout for Star Sound brass ones, you will be amazed at the difference; it is a screw off screw on operation.
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