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Budget phono stage- advice appreciated

I would appreciate any opinions/advice you may have. I need to add an outboard phono stage to my home office system. The system as is stands right now: Audio Refinement Complete Integrated, Magnum Dynalab tuner, Oracle Alexandria/Sumiko/Grado Platinum, NAD Reference Series CD Player, Totem Rokk speakers. I considered adding the NAD PP-1 phono stage, but my local NAD dealer tells me it's barely adequate, he recommended the Creek OBH-8. I've read mixed reviews on the Creek. I don't want to spend a lot of money on the phono stage, it's really casual listening while I work. Ideas? Thanks, Jeff
jeffloistarca
david99
1,467 posts
 
Get a used Lehmann Black Cube for around $400-$450 It will blow away all under $1000 or more.Takes up very little space also.Stereophile CLASS B......Can handle any cartridge also.Dont get the NAD or Creek! I have been through them all.The Cube is music,the rest a waste of $$
curtaudio's avatar
curtaudio
42 posts
 
I think the NAD is outstanding. It holds up to some of the best. The design is excellent. Curt
phild
603 posts
 
I second the recommendation for the Lehmann Black Cube. It's worth the $695 retail, but it's REALLY worth $400-$450. It may not be perfect, but it can't be beat for the price. I haven't heard the NAD or the Creek.
david99
1,467 posts
 
Jeff, You have a pretty good office system.I admire you for having a Turntable there.YEA!! GO ANALOG!! Spend a bit more on the Cube,your system deserves it.
jeffloistarca OP
1,004 posts
 
Thanks so much for taking the time to answer. $400 is a little more than I'd prefer to spend, but, my vinyl deserves a good step-up. Perhaps once I sell my Audio Research SP9 II pre-amp, I'll go fer it. David, yeah, can't shake my love of analog, I'm used to my Oracle Delphi IV/SME/Grado Reference in my main rig and I'll be damned if I'm forced to live exclusively with them shiny little discs whilst I toil away. Again, thanks guys...Jeff
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