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How much difference does a phono stage make?

I am using a NAD PP2 phono stage right now and I am interested in upgrading. I am really interested in the Audio Research PH3. It can be found for around 700-750 used. How much difference can I expect? 700-750 worth?

Table- VPI Scout

Cartridge- Benz Micro ACE 2.5mv

Thanks!
macd
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
Look for the PH3SE, it is worth the $150 more difference. I had the PH3 and then the PH3SE. Plenty of difference. Great value. The 5 and 7 are also good but not good values.
lloydc's avatar
lloydc
549 posts
 
the difference will be night and day, entirely worthwhile. However, it may reveal the limitations of other parts of the chain that you were not aware of.
macd OP
103 posts
 
Thanks guys for your feedback. Would I have to change a resistor inside to give me the correct gain for my Micro 2.5mv? What gain would I need, or is this something you have to just try out and experiment with?
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
4,152 posts
 
The PH3 has a FIXED gain of 54db, you can't change it. You can change both input impedance and input capacitance by changing the resistor and capacitor inside.

Your cartridge at 2.5mv, will work fine with the 54db of gain of the PH3.
stickman451
529 posts
 
Everything above makes good sense. What does your Scout sit on? When I had my Scout I definitely noticed performance differences depending upon the table/stand. I like the 4" solid maple platforms from MapleShade.
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