Looking for a $500 or so phono preamp -- BC23 ?


Hi, how would a used Blue Circle BC23 stack up against some of the newer phono preamps Graham Slee, Edwards Audio or Project (Tube Box II?).
What would you buy on that budget ? Any suggestions ? I'm all EARs (yes, lousy pun intended).
Thanks in advance.
128x128kennyman
I used Jantzen Superior z-caps 1.0 uf from Parts Express. It was an inexpensive modification for $25. There was a material improvement in mid and high-end clarity.
Redglobe, Thanks. I somehow assumed that the designer(s)
should test and listen to different capacitors before implementing them. This btw is stated by P&R regarding all the 'parts' in the new Jasmine. I don't believe that 'saving on something' will include capacitors of this value?

Regards,
I've had good results with ClearAudio in the past. The Nano or Smart Phono are both excellent phono stages IMHO.
Nandric, I have an older Jasmine. I don't know if the newer MkII has upgraded capacitors. They may have taken this into account in the latest model. Nevertheless, I had a fellow audio buddy over and he remarked on the fluidity and openness of the sound when we played of couple of his Mercury pressings.
Thanks for the help. Keep the ideas coming.
Has anyone here had any experience with the Blue Circle BC23, especially compared with some of the newer phono stages ?
Actusreus, thanks for the offer. I'll look into your Camelot Technologies Lancelot . I don't know much about it.
Tbrongard, I've seen reviews on the Musical Surroundings Phonomena I and II and they seem like they'd be a good choice and are on my short list, especially after being recommended by a Gon'r.
Wescoman, I've definetely heard of Clearaudio and will check out some reviews and the forum(s).
Redglobe, thanks, but I'm not a DIY'er and can't see myself ever sitting with a soldering iron in my living room working on a phono stage. I don't have the proper knowledge or skills to be doing that (yeah,I'm jealous).
Nandric, did you order your Jasmine and have it shipped right from China ? Is yours the LP1 or 2? I went on e-bay to check them out, but I'm not sure I want to get something shipped from that far (many reasons). I guess I'll have to weigh out the +/-'s.

Keep the responses coming and someone with the Blue Circle BC23 please chime in.