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Phono stages under 800 to compete with ARC PH3

Hey guys I was wondering if anyone has any advice about phono stages under $800 that compete or out perform the ARC PH3. I had the ARC for a bit and loved it. I regrettably sold it, and now im in the market for a new stage, but want to keep my options open. Does anyone know how CJs separate stages would compare to the PH3?

Many carts will be used with it but do not need much gain since my lowest cart is 1.6mv.

I also would prefer it to be tubed. Thanks
macd
gslone
274 posts
 
I doubt you'll find a separate CJ phono stage for under 800.00. The average used CJ EV-1 goes for 990.00. Your 1.6mv cart would be a good match for the EV-1 though. I use a 2.5mv HOMC with my EV-1, and it works great for me. Not sure how the EV-1 would compare with the PH3, but from what I read on this site, I hear CJ's tube stuff generally sounds more tube like then ARC's tube stuff.
stanwal's avatar
stanwal
3,147 posts
 
It is always a good thing to stay with what you already know you like; something different is something different, which you may or may not like.
rdavwhitaker
173 posts
 
There is an EAR 834P (the mm/mc version, which is what you would want) for sale on A'gon right now for $795.00. I used to own an ARC PH3se, and currently have the 834P in my system. I would say it is definitely competitive, and with low-output moving coil cartridges is an improvement, IMHO.
rdavwhitaker
173 posts
 
Sorry, meant to add that while you don't have any low-output MC cartridges right now, why not get the most versatile unit you can -- you never know what the future might bring. ;)
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