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Can anyone recommend a Phono Pre Amp?

Hello again,
I have a Project 9 with a Dynavector X-H high output cartridge connected to my Musical Fidelity XLPS-v3 by Synergistic Looking Glass active cables. I'm driving all this with Rogue Audio 150 monoblocks through a Rogue Audio 99 pre amp and Martin Logan SL3's. My system sounded bright at first but after about 150 hours of use warmed up quite a bit. The Musical Fidelity is kinda warm but dry. I have also tried the PS Audio phono pre amp that had way more detail but was a little edgy and lacked mid-range warmth. I'm looking to spend about $1ooo, hopefully less. Any recommendations?
128x128zeal
zeal's avatar
zeal OP
151 posts
 
Thanks Guys for your fast replys and opinions. Has anyone heard the Musical Surroundings Phenomina? I heard it rocks.
eweedhome
227 posts
 
The EAR 834P is admired by a lot of tube-lovers (including me), and 2nd hand is usually under $1000. Benefits from tube rolling. I preferred it over a Musical Fidelity phone pre that I had (forget the model, but it cost about $500) and thought it was night and day better. And, frankly, thought it held up respectably against the Rhea, at around $5,000.
stevecham
3,298 posts
 
Years ago I was loaned a Phenomenon while I waited for the phono pre I had ordered. I had this for a couple of weeks and liked it, neutral sound, quiet, got the job done. Good value for the money as is the Musical Fidelity pre. But now I have two EAR 834Ps, one in each system, and they are very satisfying. If ever I upgrade it will be to a Manley Steelhead or equivalent, the EARs are that good. I second Eweedhome's recommendation on this one.
mantisory
95 posts
 
If you didn't edginess and lots of detail I would stay away from the JLTI. It is a very detailed and accurate phonostage with great pacing and drive as restock says, but it also has some harshness to it (almost like a digital glare) that ,in my opinion, would make it hard to live with for an extended period (the XONO is similar in quality, but is much more musical).
The Dynavector is okay, but not when compared to others at the same price level.
I have the ARC PH3SE and love it - it has a great balance between detail retrieval, soundstaging (very deep!) and musicality.
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
I agree with Manitsory on the JLTI. I find it a little grainy/etchy sounding. Too "hi-fi" for my taste.

For less money and better sonics the Graham Slee Era Gold Mark V and Revelation are much better IMO.
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