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Tube preamp with or without phono stage?

I’m looking to add a preamp to my two channel system. Currently I’m using an Audio Alchemy DDP-1 as the pre fed by a Simaudio Moon 110LP as the phonostage. My amp’s a Benchmark AHB-2 and speakers are Paradigm Persona 3F. The Personas and Benchmark are recent purchases and I’m rebuilding backwards. I’ve been targeting a clear, detailed, neutral and dimensional soundstage. Very low noise and distortion.

I’d now like to add a tube preamp and have a few questions. What are the pros and cons of the phonostage built into the pre vs as a separate? My amp only has balanced in’s but I can use an XLR to RCA adapter if necessary, are there any concerns with using the adapter? Finally, any recommendations up to about $3-5k with some flexibility?

Thanks
jszei
dragon_vibe
430 posts
 
I do have a Phono stage in mine. This debate about which is better could go on. If you are seriously in pursuit it would be a shame not to demo the MP-1.

I have a Pre-amp up for sale on Audiogon, I believe the add may have been over. Need to check. This is a Tube Pre-amp with a tube VTPS Power Supply and performs well above its asking price. The Atma Pre-amp are superior to my current pre-amp for sale but the price difference rightly so.
mcgal
189 posts
 
I was very happy with my preamp phono stage until I tried a better dedicated one. Unfortunately the dedicated phono stage cost more than the preamp. I feel it all depends on how much you want to spend and how everything works together in your system. I feel systems are only as good as their weakest link. I also feel cables and vibration control make a difference so take that into consideration.
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
7,068 posts
 
I also feel cables and vibration control make a difference so take that into consideration.
This is a pretty big argument for having the phono section built-in.
vegasears
922 posts
 
Mcintosh c-2500

Two phono stages MM and MC
Internal DAC
Multiple line level inputs

Outstanding warranty and customer service.

"New Old Stock" units are listed on this site in your price range and come with Manufacturers 3 year warranty. 

I purchased one not long ago and it's the best audio purchase I've made in years.  

jszei OP
17 posts
 
@atmasphere do you work for Atma-Sphere or is it a naming coincidence?  If so, what's your take on whether there are any sound quality benefits to an integrated phonostage, all things being equal?
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