3K to 4K Phono Pre-Amp

Both rare birds TWL. I will keep my eyes open. Txs.

Thank you Alanmkafton. Very interesting.

I'll look into the EAR 324 as well. It reminds me of the Steelhead in some ways except solid state. I like the input for two turntables because I want to keep my VPI MKIV/SME309/Grado Reference for comparisons and later, with a change in cartridges, dedicated to mono.

Thank you Dmailer for the recommendation. I have also noted others who are very supportive of the Hagerman technology.

Thanks for the feedback RonyW.

I have a Cary SLP-98P and I have considered a step-up for it, but I was told by several audiophiles that this approach would not be ideal in comparison with a new, high quality phono preamp like a Rhea, Hagerman (plus step-up), the Ear suggested above or idealy a used Manley or Aesthetix IO.

As soon as I can get through remodeling in my house, now extending through Sept according to the contractor, I plan on stepping up my efforts to investigate and purchase a State-of-the-art Turntable (VPI HR-X, SME20/2A performance package, or the like (Maybe even a Teres is in the running with a Graham Arm).

I would like a top end cartridge like a transfiguration or a maybe even a Koetsu if the sound is right, but I will try to be open-minded, recognizing the great sound of Shelter and many others.

I am trying to get all I can from my records without busting my budget. Currently my VPI/MKIV/SME309/Grado Ref sound better than CDs on my Nuvista to me (which I think is a killer CD player). I can only imagine how much better vinyl could be. I feel that I am limited by my current set-up against using very high-end MC cartridges or low output MI Grados. I plan to dedicate the VPI to mono in the expanded system.

Obviously, I will spend a long time making these decisions. But, that will be at least half of the fun - both listening and learning.

By the way, I have tried to get a local, retired RF engineer to help me build a new pre-amp but he said it was too complicated a task. If my Cary is not limiting, maybe he would help me build a step-up with some Jensens. Again, I am open.

Greg

Thank you all - very interesting discourse. Clearly there is a lot of controversy surrounding phonostage preamplification and the current state of the analog art.

Regardless of whether one considers a commerical or DIY endeavor, what are the key design decisions that impact on phono preamp sound.

Secondly, how closely matched or restricted must the cartridge selection be to given a specific phono preamp selection.

A very low output cartridge needs 60 or more dB of amplification. How does one assess how much strain on the preamp this entails, how does that strain affect speed, resolution, transparency, and noise?.

Basically, how does one objectively break down the merits of a phono preamp design or upgrade and select candidates to listen to and purchase?

Thanks s23chang.

I am simply trying to learn as much as I can inorder to select a few preamps to audition. Your input is appreciated very much. The SA-5000 sounds very interesting and will require further investigation on my part!

Greg

I always spend the least I can, but I am willing to spend up to 4K. Thanks for the suggestions.