2. amps-preamps
  3. 1144549541

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
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.
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
The unmodded Jolida phono stage is a spectacular value. Just swap out the tubes for something a bit higher quality.

I am thoroughly pleased with mine. Quiet, balanced, dynamic. Perfect with a good MC and table.

My system:
Music Hall MM7
Jolida phono pre
Rogue Cronus integrated
Jolida CDP and Tuner
Vandersteen 2Ces
Tara RSC prime speaker cables
Synergistic alpha one ICs
PC Audio humbuster & power strip

Audio bliss!
Steve
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