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Phono Stage Questions

My current system: Technics SL-1200 with full KAB mods, CJ ET5 Line Stage and ARTsa amp, Sony SS2 speakers. Current phono stage is a Creek OBH-15MK2. Cartridges include Ortofon 2M Black, Audio Technica AT150anv, and AT33 Mono 45th Anniversary. I am thinking about acquiring Ortofon Credenza Black and Credenza Mono too.

The phono performance is not where I want it to be. Compared to my digital source: Sony HAP-Z1ES, it lacks sparkle, clarity and space in the mids and highs and the bass is not as well controlled. I believe the remedy in part at least is a better phono preamp. Comments please.

I am considering a few: The Creek Wyndsor because it would facilitate cartridge swaps and has been favorably reviewed. Lehmann Silver Cube and CJ TEA2MAX might be overkill for my turntable, but I am sure that either would sound terrific. Since it is impossible to audition this stuff I am hoping that someone has heard any or all of these and can provide their impressions.
billstevenson
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
I agree. Your phono preamp seems to be quite a bit lower in quality than either your cartridges or other gear.

IMHO a Lehmann Black Cube SE or SE ll would be a great match. It is very well organized, very detailed, and many steps up from the Creek. You may not long for any new cartridges as the fine ones that you already own will sound so much better.

For a warmer sound the Musical Surroundings phono preamps are also excellent and may suit your system better, though, if it were my money I would choose the Lehmann.
billstevenson OP
167 posts
 
Thanks very much for your advice. Earlier today I ordered the CJ TEA2MAX mostly because I already have CJ electronics. My dealer is also an authorized Ortofon dealer so we discussed the Lehmmann Silver Cube, but not the Black Cube models. It was the dealer's opinion that I would like the cj phono stage better, based on his perception of my listening preferences. Since none of the phono stages under consideration are available to listen to, making this decision was very abstract. I believe all of the phono stages mentioned are very high grade.
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Bill, enjoy! That is a very fine phono stage that should really take your system to the next level.

Have a happy holiday and fine listening.
billstevenson OP
167 posts
 
Following up, the cj TEA2MAX arrived last night. Not even broken in it sounds fantastic. I am thrilled with it.

Bill
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