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3K to 4K Phono Pre-Amp

Background: I am trying to upgrade to my ultimate analog set-up. I think the first step should be an new Phono pre-amp capable of supporting high-end MC eventually. I have read the controversy of step-up vs new phono preamp, but I am leaning to the new phono preamp. I have a Cary SLP-98P and love it.

Question: In the $3K to $4K range, what is the best match to a Cary AMP/Pre-AMP/Horn system that would provide good versatility as I later upgrade my cartridge and TT. I have read about the Aesthetic Rhea, AcousTech PhD, and several others but I simply don't have the experience or access to this equipment to help decide.

Cartridges that I may eventually purchase include Koetsu, Shelter, Transfiguration, or comparable. It depends on the tonearm I end up with.

Thank You
cardiackid
jtinn
1,123 posts
 
Rwd: The Groove is much quieter, faster and more dynamic.

Alan has made a very good suggestion. The Ear is really one of the best values in audio.
dmailer's avatar
dmailer
235 posts
 
I second the Trumpet, I am using with the Shelter 901 and it is a truely unbelievable phono preamp. It is also half of what you are prepared to spend.. You will need a step-up for a low output MC. I would go with the S&B tranies from either Hagerman or Bent Audio.
cardiackid OP
63 posts
 
Thank you Dmailer for the recommendation. I have also noted others who are very supportive of the Hagerman technology.
lsyankee
4 posts
 
Try the New Sutherland PHd Phono. Runs on Batteries. No AC noise and it sounds great.
ronyweissman
3 posts
 
Not to be simple, but are you asking about a phono stage or a step-up transformer/pre pre-amp? If you are really looking for versatility and the best sound, you have to consider these items seperately. And you don't have to spend more than $300 for a passive step-up and around the same amount for a tube-based phono with power supply that will sound as good as anything else out there, even price no object. That will let you spend more money on the TT itself. Keep visiting DIY horn/tube guys in whatever town you are in, or whenever you travel. You'll find the best stuff with these guys.

RonyW
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