Best matching phono stage with Zyx Universe cartr.

Another vote from me for the Aesthetix IO Sig - my current rig. Although the IO can be relatively noisy (tube rush) with low output mc carts, the UNIverse is just on the right side of the noise level and therfore it is not at all obvious or disatracting. I do use a combination of the latest Sovtek LP low noise tubes and a couple of NOS tubes in the final gain stages. I have it either direct with 100pf capacitance or thru a transformer (loaded at 30ohm thru Altec 4722's is best for me) and 4 tubes removed from the IO first gain stages to cut back on the tube rush. Loaded thru a step up transformer I find the ZYX to be a bit more dynamic and punchy; direct into the IO it is a bit more transparent and accurate perhaps. Frankly at normal playback levels, background noise level is not a factor.

I did try the ZYX Artisan for several months before the IO and it did not have the dimensionality and depth of the IO. Interestingly I found the Artisan to have some background noise as well, which surprised me for a battery stage. I guess it does not have the high gain capability of the IO.

I have also used a Sonic Frontiers Phono 1 with NOS tubes and that was in between the other two. If i was doing it again I would go for the latest version of the Aesthetix Rhea, as I am sure it is very close to the IO for much less cost.

I moved from a Triplanar to either an Audiocraft AC-4400 with the medium mass arm or my Dynavector 507 Mk2 and both these arms were better than the Triplanar for me on various tables, belt, Direct and rim driven. Subjectively the Triplanar came as across as "drier" all arms being equivalent in detail and dynamics.

Steve

My ZYX Universe works great with my Steelhead.

TRON phono is great. I've heard the ZYX with this stage and the TRON is very good and extremely quiet as well for a tube stage.

Charlie

I am using a Basis Debut with the Basis Arm. I find this arm sounds more musical than the triplanar as well.

I'm using a Supratek Syrah with my my Universe. I had assumed the Syrah was a weak link and I bought a Musical Fidelity KW phono for about a month and did some a/b comparisons. I found the Syrah more engaging and 'alive' although they were generally close in most areas. Anyway, I sold the MF phono. I'd love to try an expensive killer phono, but not sure if a $3k phono will be better than my Syrah.