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Phono preamp: Sutherland 20/20 or Manley Chinook?

Hi guys -

I'm looking to upgrade my Lehmann Black Cube twin phono preamp to either of the above (also open to other suggestions).

System is Michell Gyro/SME 309/Benz Micro Glider SL (low output MC); EAD Pre/Pro; Bryston 9BST power amp and Dali Euphonia MS-4.

I want a warm sound and very musical presentation that pulls you in and doesn't fatigue - hence these two on the shortlist. I am not after the nth degree of detail or insight but would like kindness and tolerance of surface noise for some of my less than perfect recordings.

Max budget is $2500; used is ok too provided I could find a 240v version of the Chinook.

Has anyone compared these two phono preamps? What did you go with?

All suggestions gratefully recieved!
wadiman
mechans
3,048 posts
 
I think you can have Ms. Manley put the right transformer in a Chinook if you are buying it new (not sure of the price.)
bpoletti
1,555 posts
 
Contact Keith Herron at herronaudio.com to see if he has any used VTPH-1mc phono stages available. It would be the best bang for the buck you will find.
bpoletti
1,555 posts
 
Forgot to mention that Keigh Herron will make sure the phono stage is set for the correct voltage.
pbnaudio's avatar
pbnaudio
1,614 posts
 
Liberty B2B-1

Are you familiar with the above phono preamp ?

Good Listening, From its maker

Peter
wadiman OP
2 posts
 
Thanks Mechans - I can get the Chinook in 240v - I'm not sure however of how it compares to the 20/20.

Bpoletti - The Herron seems like it might not be quite warm enough in my system but appreciate the suggestion

Pbnaudio - The liberty looks good but am unsure about its Class A operation and heat generation - I am already challenged with heat dissipation in the current set-up. I am installing fans to alleviate this but want to avoid a lot more heat. Having said that - that is one disadvantage (I would have thought) of the Manley vs the 20/20 - i reckon the latter would run a fair bit cooler?
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