On the fence about Vinyl need a good phono stage for A/B testing

I am fortunate to have a Luxman EQ-500 and it is wonderful. A mix of valve and SS with the brilliance of a quality maker. Although expensive, it is a permanent part of my team.

Of the three you mention the Luxman is the best. You should always buy the best when possible.

Be sure to give a Parks Audio phono stage a serious listen!  Many trusted individuals I know swear that this little guy hits way above its asking price!

http://parksaudiollc.com/

You’re welcome OP. See my latest thread asking for help in how to make my digital sound better. I used to be in the opposite camp. :)

Also, I should note, that after using some nice but intro level Rega and Grado carts (both under $300 or so), I first made the jump to Roksan Corus cart (really a Goldring made for Roskan), then to an Ortofon 2M Black, and then to an AudioTechnica ART9.  

I asked a similar question about 3 years ago--if my memory serves me.  Someone here told me to get a great phono preamp.  That was some of the best advice ever. 

I went from using $500 or less phono pre's  or those that were integrated in integrated amps, receivers, etc.  I made a big dive in and bought a Manley Chinook.  The phono pre made the biggest difference in improving vinyl of any move I've made (more than upgrading amps, going tube amp, using a record cleaning machine, etc).  

I'm pretty humble and reserved in giving advice here.  I would say, however, you should really try out a decent phono pre or two.  

One last thing--I think I get the most out of vinyl (phono pre/cartridge) when listening to well recorded music.  Such music sounds great on digital for sure, yet with vinyl it is intoxicating and addictive. 

I never purchased any pre anything before. Wondering about the value for $ and if I can even perceive the difference audibly speaking. For example Luxman EQ-500 vs Parasound JC3+ vs Project Tube Box DS2 . Will I perceive a difference with my setup?.

Just wanted to make sure you weren't using an Ortofon Cadenza Bronze, that would be a mismatch for sure with the Project phono stage. I agree with Elizabeth that a better phono stage would be preferable if finances allow. A quality phono stage contributes immeasurably to the enjoyment of the medium. I had to try several before finding one that pushed all my buttons and I found that several highly reviewed models were "meh" to my ears. The cartridge, table, and phono stage all work together synergistically and if one element isn't simpatico, the rest of the combo falls short of its potential. 

http://libertyaudio.com/service/b2b-1-all-fet-phono-preamplifier/


Another option

Good Listening

Peter

In my opinion you should also be mindful of your vinyl source for your comparison to your digital because you don’t want to just compare a digital vinyl record (reissue/new) to your lossless files for this test.

Aim for as close to original pressing as possible, of course, and I think some favorite Blue Note recording from the late 50s would reveal the most dramatic difference to your digital files of the same recording... if any.

Of course I am biased since my vinyl set up has developed to get the most out of vintage jazz that I found less than engaging from digital source but now find intoxicating on vinyl.

IMO the phono box should be along the cost lines of your TT and cart. So the 'sensible' level is the Parasound JC3+. However I bet you will like the Luxman a LOT more! So I say if you can afford the Luxman, you should go for it.

Which Ortofon Bronze are you using - 2m, Quintet, or Cadenza?