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
Ha! Ask for a recommendation on two products, get recommendations for two different ones. Never heard the Sutherland. I own the Chinook, but wouldn't classify it as warm. I do find it musical and non-fatiguing though. Good luck.
Not sure Sutherland will be warm enough for you either. There's a Zesto Andros for sale here not too far from your price range that might be worth a look. Or maybe an Allnic 1201? Best of luck.
Another suggestion if I may - check out the BMC mcci which is mc only phono stage but a truly excellent unit. Rave reviewers in stereophile.
You can find a used one easily for your budget.
EAR 834P is the warm phono stage you are looking for and save some bux. I had both the Chinook and the EAR (now the Steelhead) and the EAR is tubey and warmer, the Chinook being more detailed and dynamic.
I would call Keith Herron and see if he has any demo units of the VTPH-2. It does exactly what you want and does it better than the Chinook which I also auditioned. It is in your budget. It is a fine piece of equipment which more than fit in a relatively more expensive system than the Herron (Magico, Esoteric, Basis etc). It stands in my opinion with units costing much more.