2. amps-preamps
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Which Tube Phono Stage around $1k?

I'm looking for a phono stage to mate with my Linn LP12/Ittok arm and a Clearaudio Virtuoso Wood cartridge. The line stage is a VTL 6.5. In the under $1k range, the Underwood Level 1 mod of the Jolida JD9a looks promising at $800. Totally stretching my budget would be a used or demo Audio Research PH5, but maybe someone can convince me that it's worth the stretch. A similar stretch might be a used Cary 302. Any comment on these or others I should consider? I'm pretty much dead set on tubes. I'll have to hear a really convincing endorsement to consider anything solid state! Thanks
pscialli
joman
167 posts
 
A used BAT VK P5 will fit your price range. I use mine with a LP12/Ittok combination and have no complaints. Top to bottom good all around phonostage. 2 6SN7's and 8 6922's, dual mono construction. They will accept any cartridge down to .4mv. Anything lower and you may need to send it back to the factory for some modification. There are one or two for sale right now. I have no affiliation with the sellers. Good luck in your search.
springbok10
711 posts
 
The best phono stage I've ever heard under $1K is the Wright WPP 200. Lists for $825. Disclaimer: I may be selling mine because the new preamp I bought has a built-in phono stage. But if I do so, it will be with great reluctance. Just a spectacular preamp.
dlwask
270 posts
 
I recently heard a mod'ed EAR 834p that a friend brought over to try in my system. It was an absolutely fantastic phono stage which now has me looking into one. I will probably opt for a mod'ed 834p instead of a used P5. I've heard the older Wright WPP 100 had some noise issues, maybe the 200 addresses that though.
springbok10
711 posts
 
I agree with Dlwask about EAR - I really didn't know they could be had for less than $1K - superb pre-amps - I have an EAR 324 in my main system. However, would still listen to the Wright if you get a chance. Mine is not noisy.
dlwask
270 posts
 
Springbok10 - if possible could you tell me how the Wright WPP 200 and EAR 834p phono stages compare? I am in the same situation as Pscialli.

Those I am considering at the moment are the Wright WPP200, modified EAR 834p and used BAT VK P5.

Of those three the EAR would wind up in the $1500 range, which gets is close to the new ARC PH5 or a used Pass XONO. Those last two I would consider end of the road type components and is my dilema.

Pscialli, I'm not trying to hi-jack this thread...I'm just in a simillar situation.
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