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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
scousepasty
106 posts
 
Don't know if its distributed Stateside but the ClearAudio Balance and Balance Reference Phono stages are worth a listen, especially if you like solid state phono's and ClearAudio cartridges.
IMO The next phono stage upgrade after the Balance Ref with duel power supplies would be a Boulder 2008 with triple power.
piedpiper
753 posts
 
"I guess it all depends on what each of us is looking for."

well said. I used to think there was "an" answer. Perhaps I have grown up a bit afterall. ;-)

...and then there's the amp speaker relationship, and the cartridge phono stage relationship, etc..

Yes, Clearaudio , along with its phono stages is distributed here by Musical Surroundings and their dealers. They are also the distributors for Aesthetix.
ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62
633 posts
 
I can't believe no one has mentioned the K&K.....so I will...

Oz
aporigine
36 posts
 
Shsohis: sshhh! :)
I have my eye on one such. Prices on them con=me and go in cycles it seems, and Smurf's Up. I'm waiting patiently for one with two full chassis at a good price. A month ago someone dumped one for $1500. I missed it by MINUTES!!
cheers apo
clio09
2,978 posts
 
I mentioned it early on in the thread, but it certainly deserves a second mention.
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