FWIW, I found the Camelot Technology Lancelot phonostage (a solid state battery powered unit that sells new for around $900) to best the all-tube internal one in my C-J PV8.
Opinion of budget phono preamps?
Is there a consensus on the comparison of a budget phono pre vs the built-in stage of a budget preamp. Was considering something like an Adcom 565 or a CJ PV10 rather than a standalone Rotel, Creek, etc. Also considering a DIY AES PH-1, which might be best of both worlds. Whaddya think?
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Thanks for the replies, guys. Yes, I recall the 565 phono stage being complimented - know anything about the 555's? My gut feel was to shy away from the very low priced stand-alones like Rotel, NAD, Creek, etc, and you've confirmed that. The more I think about it, the more I'm leaning to a standalone, since it will broaden my range of options for a preamp acquisition and future upgrades. I'm also getting more interested in a DIY project. Anyone exposed to the PH-1 in any way at all?? Here's a link for info. AES PH-1 Anyone know of any other DIY phono preamps? Thanks! |
Another canidate to consider is the Monolithic phono preamp (PS-1) w/ or w/o the dual mono power supply. I see that the preamp + power supply is available in the a'gon classifieds for around 400. I have the PS-1 w/o the stand alone power supply, and I like it a lot. Good soundstage, a bit weak in the bass (tho apparently the the power supply helps with this). It's also very flexible in terms of what carts you can use, and it's easy to operate as well. Looks nice too, IMO. |
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