Solid State Phono Pre-amp Recommendations

Sutherlands are neutral and very good at their price points.

Heard good things about the Parasound JC-3 but its engine is based on OpAmps (although carefully selected by John Curl) so I'm not sure about its long term value. So are the ASR mini basis exclusive, which I had and sold. It is perfect sounding but somehow a bit "flat"

Whest from the UK is phenomenal sounding. Rich with all the detail you will ever need, full of energy similar to a good tube stage.

As I also own an Aesthetix Rhea which is tube, and I wanted a solid state model with flexibility, clarity and transparency, so after a lengthy selection process, I settled on the Esoteric E-03.

For price no object, I heard the Bolder 1080 in a familiar system and was speechless. No contest. For lower priced units, Clearaudio makes good reasonably priced models.

If cost is no object you may as well save some cash. I have two suggestions preferable to most SS options at any price:

Bel Canto Phono 3
Jasmine LP 2.0se or MkII

Phil

Buy a used Pass Labs Xono for $1800 to $2200!

Many adjustments and settings - gain, resistor, capacitance for "ANY" MM or MC made!

Simple circuit, great reliability!

Many great reviews and awards!

02-03-12: Sirotseta
Sutherlands are neutral and very good at their price points.

Heard good things about the Parasound JC-3 but its engine is based on OpAmps (although carefully selected by John Curl) so I'm not sure about its long term value. So are the ASR mini basis exclusive, which I had and sold. It is perfect sounding but somehow a bit "flat"

Well the Sutherland 20/20 also uses opamps and is priced about the same as the JC3.
FWIW, in the latest followup test of the JC3 in Stereophile, the reviewer compared it to John Curl's highly regarded (and quite expensive in its day) discrete component 'Vendetta' phono stage - and found the differences quite small.

I have no stake in either component, nor have I heard them....just wouldn't write off the JC3 based on its use of opamps - it's construction quality 'looks' superb.

I agree win Don. The Pass Xono for about $2K is a great SS phono. Very neutral and very adjustable. Great build quality and very reliable. Super support from Pass Labs if you should ever need it.