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Stand out phono stages

This topic has been started before by others and myself as well, maybe too many times, but it is worth revisiting since the source is so very important!
So far I have had the pleasure to enjoy two worthy phono stages: the EAR 834p and the JLTI.
I have to admit they are spectacular. Obviously the record and all the equipment downstream play a role in the sound heard. In some cases I prefer the JLTI and in other cases the EAR. But neither out do the other dramatically.
What phono preamps outshine others by a big margin, those that can be considered the last phono preamp ever needed.
pedrillo
thuchan
955 posts
 
Andromedaaudio,
you`re right. with the normal model you only have the chance to bypass by change the circuit around the SUTs which should be possible, at least for one channel.
If you wanna use a SUT go for the Kondo or the Lamm - both are brilliant in connection with SUTs.
andromedaaudio
170 posts
 
And a 1100 series , which is the mono version but thats not what im in for at the moment
goatwuss
875 posts
 
I took home an ASR Mini Basis Exclusive to compare to my PS Audio GCPH. I wasn't planning on making a change at all, but it sounded night & day so much better that I bought one.

Compared to the ASR, the PS audio sounded thin and compressed. If you're looking for a stage in the $2-4k range I'd suggest checking it out. Very open sound and rich without being too euphonic.

I also compared to the phono in my Supratek Syrah - and though this was a closer comparison, the ASR was still more open, rich and dynamic. This stage really brought my vinyl playback up a few notches in enjoyment for me.
larryi
1,972 posts
 
A lot of tube units are basically tube MM stages with a SUT used to provide the higher gain needed for LOMC. Exceptions, like the Aesthetix Io, have a whole lot of tubes to provide more the extra gain through active stages.

I like tube stages with SUT, provided that the transformer is really good. The Kondo is a good example. I think the SUT in the Audionote (uk) units are really terrific too. One can actually buy their transformers separately, though the top model is extremely pricey. I heard a custom-made stage using their best transformer and it is amazing.
andromedaaudio
170 posts
 
I actually want to skip the sut s .
Im becoming quite fond of the London moving iron i have , i think thats the future not mc s .
If i buy a zanden 1200 i have to use the step up even if i dont need the gain.
So i can conclude that the kondo mm , lamm mm and maybe the zanden (1000) mm are good choices and others probably .
I now have the nagra via mm out , i dont know what exactly i will gain switching to another mm stage.
I have a good gut feeling about the zanden 1000 though as i m quit fond of their model 3000.
The lamm will be by far the cheapest choice.
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