Is Coincident Statement Phono pre-amp an overkill

Essrand, I use to own the CAT SL-1 Signature. I found the preamp to be very open and dynamic, but very foward in the midrange. In the end I got tired of this sound. My friend had the Ultimate with the same results. Good luck.

Hi Onhwy61,
Essrand can certainly build his record library over time as most anyone has done, there is quite a resource available. My point for encouraging him is this, he can buy a superior product for a rare discounted price. This will match his premium level power amplifier and form a superb foundation (and likely avoid the dreaded component merry go round). In the long term he saves money and reduces anxiety and second guessing. He'll have wonderful sound as he buys more and more records.
Charles,

I have refrained from commenting on the cost, but let's keep in mind that Coincident sells direct, not through dealers. Therefore, Coincident can sell any of its products for any price that Israel Blume deems to be acceptable, regardless of the "list price". Thus, it is not a given that this opportunity to buy at a large discount is "once in a lifetime", if the OP wants to wait to make a decision. In other words, I would not encourage the OP to make this purchase solely because of the discount.

Charles1dad, everything you just said is true. My point is that despite those truths, having so little invested in vinyl might no warrant such a large investment in equipment. While there is no magic number of LPs that triggers getting state of the art equipment I would argue that an element of common sense should apply. Another way of stating the issue is to ask whether the OP would be better off with 250 more records and the EAR phono stage versus his two dozen LPs and the Coincident?

Hi Onhhy61,
I clearly understand your point and it's logical. I feel that Essrand is committed to building a LP collection that can be enjoyed for a lifetime. I rather buy the Coincident Phono now (if it's within budget) rather than the lesser component only then to upgrade later anyway.

Lewm, I'm not suggesting this is a 'once in a lifetime deal', however 25% off is very good for this top shelf phono stage. Yes there's more than one approach to this situation. I'm just a believer in getting the higher quality gear when you can(and when the price is right), most often there's no looking back. I know Essrand will make his own decisions, I'm just trying to be helpful.
Charles,