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Which phono preamps among these three?

1. Manley Chinook Tube phono stage
2. Whest PS.30R
3. Aesthetix Rhea

I picked these three because they are currently available for sale in audiogon, and all three have very good reviews. All three are a bit over my budget at the moment, but I expect to get enough fund in the short future.

I mostly listen to Jazz (50s-60s) and classicals, occasionally pops and rocks. Rhea is more expensive than the other two, but Rhea supports three inputs while the other supports only one input, switchable to MM or MC. The other two cost about the same as used Rhea.

If you are to pick one, which one? For what reason? Is one definitely better than the others? Or, they are pretty much in the same league with different characteristics?
128x128ihcho
bdp24's avatar
bdp24
9,821 posts
 
There is an Allnic 1201 listed right now for $2200. I listened to the Liberty B2B at T.H.E. Show last weekend, and it sounds great and is really well built.
ihcho's avatar
ihcho OP
612 posts
 
Thanks for all tips.
I don't mind to know more about other great phono stages at similar price points. The problem is, harder to decide with more to choose from.
I one time listened to Plinius M16P preamp with phono. That phono was exceptionally good. Much better than the phono card that came with BAT VK30. So, I would not mind going for a full function preamp with phono if the phono section is at least as good as Plinius M16P.
bpoletti
1,553 posts
 
have you auditioned a Herron VTPH-2?
rwd
695 posts
 
I also had my Rhea re-tubed by Andy. Major improvement!!!!
fjn04
1,561 posts
 
"I one time listened to Plinius M16P preamp with phono. That phono was exceptionally good. Much better than the phono card that came with BAT VK30. So, I would not mind going for a full function preamp with phono if the phono section is at least as good as Plinius M16P."

In that case, I suggest you try and hear a Shindo Aurieges MM. However, if you run an MC cart, you will need a transformer. I have also heard the Kevin Carter designed Art Audio phono stage. It was very good, so the K & K suggested above should be excellent.
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