Hey Alonski you put a huge smile on my face the way you described your first listen to the Signature 2a; I was the same way. It crushed my ARC REF 5! I had to put on a Lobster bib to catch my drool! I have to tell you I heard the Statement preamp and phono at CES and before I did I was thinking to myself, "how much better could this be". Trust me, it is UNBELIEVABLE! Everything the Sig 2a does this does better and effortlessly. Anyone looking for a pre amp that doesn't consider the Statement is nuts. I hope I make some money again so I can buy one someday. The Statment Phono was killer too. You should see if there are pictures on the web site of the inside; the build is meticulous; the sound better. Kevin told me it is hard for him to listen to the Sig after creating the Statement. He also told me I need to move up the amp line to really enjoy greater sound. I still don't know why Kevin doesn't get more accolades his stuff is so much better than the other tube stuff out there. Until I upgrade I will enjoy the superb sound of the stuff I own.
VAC Owners:Outboard Phono Stage?
I'm contemplating my next upgrade. Thought you guys could help.
I spin mostly vinyl. I have a great analogue front end that feeds a VAC Standard LE pre and VAC PHI 200 amp, both of which I love. The MC stage on the pre is really good, but a little noisy (hiss). Kevin is sending me new 12AX7s that Brent will test for very low noise at the VACtory. Those guys just rock!
My question, however, is how much do I need to spend on an outboard MC phono stage if I want a significant upgrade to the already wonderful sound of the built-in stage?
I know, why don't I just enjoy the wonderful sound? Because it's upgrade time, baby! There will always be a next level (we really need a 12 step group for this hobby).
I'm looking at the Zesto Andros ($3900), the Herron VTPH-2 ($3700), and possibly the new Manley Chinook ($2200).
Ideally, I could audition these in my system, but the nearest dealer is far away, so I'll have to order one.
Any thoughts are welcome. Thanks,
Alón (no, not Wolf)
I spin mostly vinyl. I have a great analogue front end that feeds a VAC Standard LE pre and VAC PHI 200 amp, both of which I love. The MC stage on the pre is really good, but a little noisy (hiss). Kevin is sending me new 12AX7s that Brent will test for very low noise at the VACtory. Those guys just rock!
My question, however, is how much do I need to spend on an outboard MC phono stage if I want a significant upgrade to the already wonderful sound of the built-in stage?
I know, why don't I just enjoy the wonderful sound? Because it's upgrade time, baby! There will always be a next level (we really need a 12 step group for this hobby).
I'm looking at the Zesto Andros ($3900), the Herron VTPH-2 ($3700), and possibly the new Manley Chinook ($2200).
Ideally, I could audition these in my system, but the nearest dealer is far away, so I'll have to order one.
Any thoughts are welcome. Thanks,
Alón (no, not Wolf)
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- 126 posts total
- 126 posts total