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Tube Phono Stage vs Solid State What do you think?

I am thinking of getting a phonostage and is looking at ASR Basis Exclusive 2010 solid state unit, BAT VK P-10SE with super pack, and Allnic H3000. I have never heard any of these units and would like to hear your opinion on solid state phono stage vs tube phonostage. And also your opinion on these units that I am looking at.
almandog
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
>>08-26-11: Inna
Any of the phonostages you mentioned would be overkill for your cartridges<<

Incorrect.

The Denon DL-S1 is a killer cartridge and a great value.
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
Tube phono pres are just as "bass tight" as solid state, that is a misconception. A preamp is not the same as an amp driving speakers. The ouput impedance characterstics are very different.
strapper211
119 posts
 
Hi,Dhcod hit it right on the head.The SS phono will whip the tube unit in specs and noise but in the real world application most prefer the sound of tubes,noise and all.
downunder
1,329 posts
 
The Denon DL-S1 is a killer cartridge and a great value

Agreed Bill. the better the phono stage, the better the Denon DL-S1 will perform
jafox
1,457 posts
 
I can't imagine any phone stage as overkill in any system. I think a lot of products, including cartridges, get a bad review, rating, first impression, etc., because of compromises in the system when the system owner has decided that product X is "good enough" for product Y.

It takes a lot of trial and error to find line stages and phono stages out there that excel in the 3D as Dhcod describes. I have heard no SS products come even close to the great tube products in this regard. I have also heard tube products that have stunning dynamics. The CAT immediately comes to mind, as does the Aria WV5 that I use.
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