Which phonostage is a heavenly match for a XV-1S

Ecka,
better watch out here :-) 'cause that Manley Steelhead will use a step-up in the MC section as well. Just in case that was not entirely clear.

The Einstein: Design discrete (24 single transistors per channel) i.e. no tubes

Two VERY different pres those aught to be hm.

Axel

Ecka, most definitely you would do well with a better phono stage, your ears will thank you continuously.

Yes the Einstein, I use a ASR phono exclusive with my Dynavector.
Keep your eye out for a used one, either one, plenty in this hobby need to sell their toy's.

Axelwahl, the Manley Steelhead has plenty of gain in its MM stage (up to 65dB) to run the XV-1s cartridge without the extra gain of the step-up autoformers. In fact, I ran the XV-1s through the MM inputs at the time I was using the Steelhead as my reference phono stage with the XV-1s.

I preferred the sound of the XV-1s run through the MM inputs as opposed to using the step-up autoformers that are in the signal path when using the Manley's MC inputs. The sound using the MM inputs was more transparent and immediate, whereas the autoformers seemed to cast a subtle veil.

Another vote for Einstein.

I have heard/compared many top phono stages and Einsteinis is as good or better than most. PM me if you want to know more.

A shameless plug, I am selling one. But I have both RCA and XLR, selling one of it and still staying with Einstein.

How about the TRON Seven. I've heard the XV-1s several times on a Graham Phantom, Raven AC through tubes and Avantgarde Trios - divine.

Charlie